People who have experienced the death of a family member or friend are invited to register for the GriefShare program held at Escalon First Baptist Church. This nondenominational program features Christ-centered, biblical teaching that focuses on grief topics associated with the death of a loved one. The DVD seminar features nationally respected grief experts and real-life stories of people, followed by a small group discussion about what was seen on the DVD.

Many grieving people find they are only beginning the work of healing when friends or family have returned to their daily life routines. Past participants have related how helpful the information and follow-up discussions were to them. Your bereavement experience may be recent or not so recent. You will find encouragement, comfort, and help in grieving the death of a spouse, child, parent, sibling, other family member, or friend, said Pastor Dale Pederson.

No matter what the cause of your loved one’s death, this is an opportunity to be around people who understand what you are feeling. You will learn how to recognize the symptoms of being stuck in grief and that you do not need to live in bondage as a slave to certain emotions. You will learn valuable information about facing your new normal in life and renewing your hope for the future.

GriefShare will be held Sunday afternoons, beginning Feb. 14 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Escalon First Baptist Church, 1511 Catherine Way in Escalon. The Grief Share program extends for 13 weeks, meeting weekly (with the exception of Easter Sunday, April 4, and Mothers’ Day, May 9), ending on May 23. Pre-registration is required at www.griefshare.org. A registration fee of $15 will be collected at registration to cover the cost of the Grief Share manual. Further information can be obtained by calling 209-715-5617.