New grief support group to meet monthly at The Holmstad

Those coping with the death of a loved one or friend may often find themselves overwhelmed in emptiness and pain. They may also have many questions in terms of not knowing if there is a right way or a wrong way to move forward in life. This is where the new "Life After Loss" support group being offered can help individuals in navigating their emotions.

"Whether you lost a loved one or are experiencing some other season of suffering, we invite individuals to join us for our monthly sessions," said Rev. Dr. Don Johnson, CovenantCare at Home and Hospice Chaplain. "We'll be using this as a time of teaching and conversation, designed to consider the place of lament and suffering in the Christian life.

"We'll turn to scripture and other helpful tools in order to gain a better footing as we journey through life after loss," Rev. Johnson said.

Rev. Johnson will facilitate the group along with co-facilitator Renee McKirchy, a social worker from Covenant Care at Home and Hospice. The pair will guide the monthly group discussions held in the classroom at The Holmstad on the second Thursday of the month beginning on April 12.

The Life After Loss Support Group meets from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month, except December, at The Holmstad, 700 W. Fabyan Parkway in Batavia.

For information, contact Brenda Lowden at The Holmstad at (630) 879-4034.

The Holmstad is a faith-based, nonprofit continuing care retirement community. It is administered by Covenant Retirement Communities, one of the nation's largest nonprofit senior services providers. It serves 5,000 residents at 15 senior living communities nationwide and is a ministry of the Evangelical Covenant Church. For more information on The Holmstad, call (877) 226-7310 or visit www.TheHolmstad.org.