Support Groups & Classes
Are you going through a difficult time? Do you need support, encouragement, or accountability? First Pres offers support groups and classes on a variety of topics, such as infertility, parenting teens, caregiving, co-dependency, living with cancer, and more. Many groups have come together as a result of one individual voicing a need; Caring Ministries welcomes your contact about desire for support in a specific area. You can find more classes which may be of interest on the Adult Education page or the Family Education & Events page.
Divorce Recovery Course
The pain of separation and divorce can feel unbearable and isolating. The Divorce Recovery Course openly acknowledges this pain and offers the hope of healing that is uniquely found in the Christian community through the comfort of the Holy Spirit and the encouragement of others. This course is open to anyone who has ended, or is in the process of ending, a long-term relationship. Each session includes presentations and personal stories given by professional facilitators and pastors, followed by time in small groups for processing and prayer.
Dates: Sundays, September 16-November 4, 2012
Times: 4:30–6:30 pm
Location: Room M310, McKinley Hall
More Information: Contact Naomi Griffin at (510) 848-6252 ext. 241 or at naomig@fpcberkeley.org.
Grief Discussion and Support Group
Are you dealing with ongoing grief? Have you experienced a recent loss? Come find support and information. This group will be led by a licensed therapist and an intern, and will meet weekly for 6-8 weeks.
Dates: TBA
More Information: Contact Berkeley Christian Counselors at (510) 548-5858 or at bcc@fpcberkeley.org.
Wise Women (Women over 60)
Berkeley Christian Counselors sponsors this group for women over 60 to meet and discuss possibilities and issues in the third chapter of life. We meet one Saturday each month to read, share, process, and munch. By popular vote, the group will read
Falling Upward by Richard Rohr, available at several local and online bookstores. All women over 60 are warmly invited to attend this always interesting discussion, led by a member of the group.
Dates: Second Saturdays
Time: 10 am-12 pm
Location: Room M310, McKinley Hall
Topics: February 11: chapter 2 of Falling Upward by Richard Rohr
More Information: Contact Berkeley Christian Counselors at (510) 548-5858 or at bcc@fpcberkeley.org.
Boundaries Group
Want to learn about boundaries and how they can help create healthy relationships? Join us for a study of Cloud and Townsend's Boundaries book and workbook. This group meets for a series of 8 weekly sessions beginning in October.
Dates & Times: Friday mornings
Location: Room M310, McKinley Hall
Cost: There will be a charge for the book and workbook and to cover expenses.
More Information: Contact Berkeley Christian Counselors at (510) 548-5858 or at bcc@fpcberkeley.org.
Women's Support Group for Codependency
This group meets twice a month.
Dates: First and third Tuesdays of each month
Time: 7-8 pm
Location: Room G209, Geneva Hall
More Information: Group meeting times may vary throughout the year; please call Naomi Griffin to check schedule at (510) 848-6252 ext. 241 or email fpcb.womens.group@gmail.com.
Widows/Widowers Support Group
Have you (or has someone you know) experienced the death of a spouse recently or within the last few years? Sharing our experiences during this ten-week class is extremely helpful to our healing process. Find hope, support, and successful ways to process this significant life event. This course is open to all widows and widowers.
Dates: Sundays, April 15-June 17, 2012
Time: 1:30-3:30 pm
Location: TBA
Cost: $15
More Information: Contact Merrilee Mitchell at (510) 482-5296 or at merrileehm@sbcglobal.net.
Caregivers Support Group
For those caring for family members or friends. Gather with other caregivers to give and receive support and encouragement.
Dates & Times: Fourth Saturdays, 9:30-11:30 am
Location: Room W102 (Church Lounge), Westminster Hall
More Information: Contact Sarah Guerra-Orantes at (510) 381-1728 or at sarahorantes@hotmail.com.
