Workshops to survive the holidays
VICTORY PARK – Those mourning the death of a loved one can be faced with overwhelming emotions. Knowing what to expect and being prepared can lessen the impact.
The holiday season has begun. With the focus on family, annual traditions, expectations, social events and ‘Christmas cheer’, those mourning the death of a loved one can be faced with overwhelming emotions. Knowing what to expect and being prepared can lessen the impact.
On Christmas Day 2011, Coralie Deas lost her 56-year-old Down’s syndrome brother, who died peacefully in her arms at home.
She said, “I did not expect to be plunged into profound and lasting grief. I felt numb and isolated and struggled with concentration and the ability to remember things. Realising I needed help, I joined a GriefShare group, where I found a safe place to get in touch with and process my emotions. Resolving that ‘no-one should have to go through this experience alone’ I started GriefShare in my own parish of St Charles, Victory Park in 2014.”
The GriefShare Programme is a two-hour seminar/support group that runs for 13 weeks. Trained facilitators come alongside those grieving the death of a loved one, to extend compassion and hope. Information is offered by means of instructive videos, covering a different aspect of grief each week.
Participants are invited to share their feelings in a safe, confidential, non-judgmental environment, where no-one is pressured to participate. The workbooks provided offer daily assignments to dig deep with questions on the grief journey.
“Whilst the programme material is biblically based, it is open to everyone, no matter what religion, including those who do not follow a religion,” Deas added.
She explained that at the seminar you will receive support, watch a video and be part of a discussion group. “This will help you to face the holidays with a measure of peace and confidence. You are welcome to bring along a friend or family member.”
The programme will take place at the St Charles’ Catholic Church, 35 Road No. 3, Victory Park on Saturday 30 November from 9.30am to 12pm (contact: Coralie 083 524 7016) and Wednesday 4 December from 6.30pm to 9pm (contact: Lesley 082 345 3084).
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