Lead effective grief support groups with a proven GriefShare rhythm: check-in, video seminar, guided discussion, prayer, and thoughtful follow-up.
Running an effective GriefShare group hinges on thoughtful planning, clear communication, and creating a compassionate atmosphere. Each 90-minute session typically follows this rhythm:
- Welcome & Check-In (10–15 min). Greet participants, open in prayer, and allow brief sharing of wins or struggles since the last meeting. This fosters relational bonds and spiritual care.
- Video Seminar (30 min). Play the professionally produced teaching segment. Ensure technical equipment (projector, sound system, stable internet for streaming) is tested ahead of time.
- Small-Group Discussion (30–35 min). Guided conversation using questions in the Leader’s Guide. Reinforce a safe space to share: no judgement for individual grief experiences or emotions.
- Wrap-Up & Prayer (10–15 min). Summarize key takeaways and pray for specific needs.
Environment & Hospitality. Provide comfortable seating, tissues, and water. Consider soft background music before and after the video to set a calm tone. Encourage leaders to arrive 15 minutes early to welcome new arrivals.
Attendance & Follow-Up. Use LeaderZone to track registration. Send reminder emails or text messages 24 hours before each session, including location details and parking instructions. After each meeting, leaders can email participants a session summary and prayer points, demonstrating pastoral care.
Handling Sensitive Moments. If a participant becomes distressed, pause the discussion, offer private prayer, and—if needed—refer to local counseling resources. Ministry Coaches are also available to help you navigate sensitive moments.