Support Ministries
|
| In times or stress or crisis in our lives we call on
God in prayer, or turn to Scripture, or seek comfort from other
Christians. Saratoga Federated Church offers several ministries that
help members and friends cope with the tough times. |
Grief Recovery Workshop
|
Our Present Experience
|
| In recent months we have experienced an
uncommon number of bereavements. The number of deaths in
the past year is almost double our customary losses.
Most of you know someone that has lost a family member. |
| In the past two years more than a 100
people in our faith community have lost a parent or
parent-in-law. More than a dozen have lost spouses. Five
have lost siblings. Five have lost children. And two
have lost a grandchild. |
| We suspect that our bereavement records
are not complete. We do not, for instance, keep all
information on uncles, aunts, cousins or dear friends.
Losing loved ones is a heartache with survival
requirements. Every year some of us live in this
reality. |
Training and Support
|
| Your Care Deacons* recognize that it is
timely to provide a workshop on self-care for those who
are grieving, and care for others who are suffering a
loss. Come for your own sake or for the benefit of
another. Care-recipients and care-providers will grow
together. |
| Sessions will include practical tools,
stories shared by those further along the same road,
spiritual guidance, recommended resources and fellowship
with others living the same experience. While our focus
will be on bereavement, the workshop will be helpful to
those recovering from the loss of a marriage. Divorcees
are welcome. |
| The grief recovery workshop is scheduled
for six Sundays (4:00-5:30 pm): April 22, 29; May 6, 20,
27; June 3. Please register your interest in attending
or helping—by calling Barbara Silverstein, ext. 239,
at the church office. |
| * Becky Davis (chair), Bill Bjorkman,
Carol Bjorkman, Donna Butcher, Geneva Baker, Jan Kyne,
Laura Lewis, Lisa Owen, Mary Jane Bruce, Sam Owen,
Barbara Silverstein (administrative assistant) and Arvin
Engelson (pastor-advisor). |
|
|
|
Our Barnabas Ministry walks alongside those who are experiencing
job transition. |
|
The Advent Counseling Center, part of our Community Care Program
at Saratoga Federated Church provides counseling for adults, youth
and children, as individuals, couples or families in need. |
|
Grief is one of the most profound experiences we encounter in
life. SFC helps those who grieve over death or divorce. |
|
The Church traditionally provides concern and care for those who
are ill. SFC offers many services and educational opportunities for
those with physical and emotional health needs, as well as those who
care for them. |
|
Contact
|
Barbara Silverstein
(408) 867-1000 x239 |
|
|