FUNERALS AND GRIEF MINISTRY

FOR EVERYTHING THERE IS A SEASON, AND A TIME FOR EVERY MATTER UNDER HEAVEN ...A TIME TO MOURN... ECCLESIASTES 3

When someone we love has died, the emotions of sadness, confusion, anger or even relief can be overwhelming. A funeral or memorial service is a unique opportunity for survivors, to remember their loved one’s life and to hear again the Christian promise of life after death. The pastors and staff at First Presbyterian Church (FPC) consider it a great privilege to help families walk through the early days of loss. The COVID pandemic has changed some of the specifics for how we can gather, but has not changed our essential ministry of care and compassion in the time of loss.

Grief ministries at FPC extend well beyond the day of a memorial, including Deacon support, a wonderful Bereavement Support Group, and pastoral counseling.

The Memorial Coordinator will be the first point of contact for all questions about the facility, scheduling, or the details around the service. COVID-related safety protocols are in place for every gathering at the church building.

Email, Erin Schwartz, Memorial Coordinator, or call 509-747-1058. 

FPC's Bereavement Support Group is for anyone who is grieving the death of a spouse, parent, child, family member or friend. You don’t have to be a church member or even a Christian to be part of this group. We welcome people from across the community, and receive lots of referrals from local hospice organizations and counselors. Our goal is to provide a safe place with caring Christian leaders so group members can:

·         express feelings without judgment

·         receive and give love, support and understanding

·         increase awareness of grief symptoms and coping skills

·         experience the pain of grief, and move toward healing

·         understand that grief is a process, not a permanent state

·         explore faith issues which may arise during grief

·         treasure and share memories

·         experience Christ's love and healing power

Meetings occur on Tuesday evenings at the church building, 318 S. Cedar Street. For more information or to register call Steve Nelson @ 370- 4209 or Carol Nelson @ 209-3890.  Cost of supplies: $30 for textbook and journal. (Some scholarships available)

Sessions are typically 12 weeks long and meet on Tuesday evenings, 6:30-8:15pm.

2020 UPDATE: group meetings on hold during the COVID pandemic. Please contact the pastor of Congregational Care for alternative sources of care.