The deep pain of bereavement can seem unending. For many, making a New Year's resolution to attend a GriefShare group has been the key to begin healing.

Contact: Kathy Leonard, Editorial Director, Church Initiative, 800-395-5755 ext 231, kleonard@churchinitiative.org

WAKE FOREST, N.C., Dec. 26, 2013 /Christian Newswire/ -- For people facing the death of a loved one, the New Year is a good time to resolve to find healing from the devastating pain of grief.

Many experience a breakthrough by attending GriefShare grief recovery support groups. More than 11,000 churches across the country and around the world are equipped to offer GriefShare programs.

Steve Grissom, founder and president of GriefShare, who has also grieved the death of his daughter Carrie-Christina, believes the New Year is a great time to make a plan to find healing: "A key step is understanding that healing doesn't mean the absence of grief, but learning to find peace and joy amidst it. Joining a GriefShare group is a proactive step in that direction."

The groups are made up of people who understand the depth of emotions, the questions "Why?" and the desperation faced by those facing a loved one's death. Because they have this understanding, they won't judge the emotions, actions or decisions of those who come.

"When I went to GriefShare, I realized there are different ways to grieve," shared Marion, whose husband died.

These biblically based support groups are designed to be led by trained facilitators who've experienced loss. They can help answer questions posed by the group participants and point people to practical and spiritual help to aid the healing process.

A typical group meeting begins with a magazine-style video seminar featuring insights from experts on grief and recovery subjects, and profiles of people who've experienced healing after loss. After viewing the video, GriefShare group members participate in a small group discussion (although some people choose not to share).

"I encourage anyone going through grief to give GriefShare a try," said Dennis, whose mother passed away, "because I think you'll be blessed by where it will put you, not only in dealing with your grief, but also in getting in touch with what God has for you."

To find a GriefShare recovery support group near you, go to www.griefshare.org and use the "Find a Group" search engine, or call 1-800-395-5755.