First Presbyterian Church of Berkeley, CA


Support Groups & Classes

mosaic 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.

Every Man's Battle
This class/discussion group is based on the book, video, and workbook, Every Man’s Battle. Led by a licensed therapist and a marriage and family intern, this group will focus on the sexual pitfalls and temptations experienced by many men, and on the help and support of scripture and other men. This is for men only, and will meet in McKinley Hall, sponsored by the Christian Lay Counseling Service. Dates TBA.


Wise Women (Winter Grace/Women over 60)
Join us in our journey through "Remembering Your Story" by Richard L. Morgan. We will be gathering to explore our stories and memories. We all have stories to tell—we are our stories. The work of memory is not simply recalling old dates, names, and places; it is the reawakening of the feelings of those moments. We'll read, share, process, and munch. All women in this third chapter of life are invited to come; pleae contact the Counseling Service for this month's date.

Dates: One Saturday per month, beginning March 27
Time: 9:30-11:30 AM
Location: Room M310, McKinley Hall
More Information: Contact the Counseling Service at (510) 548-5858 or at clcs@fpcberkeley.org.


Women's Support Group for Codependency
This group meets twice a month.

Dates: First and third Tuesdays of each month
Time: 7:00-8:00 PM
Location: G209, Geneva Hall
More Information: Group meeting times may vary throughout the year; please call Caring Ministries to check schedule at (510) 848-6252 ext. 241 or email fpcb.womens.group@gmail.com.


Widows/Widowers Support Group
Have you experienced the death of a spouse recently or within the last couple years? This group provides a safe place for sharing experiences of loss and grief. Topics covered during the 10-week group include facing loss, understanding grief, letting go of the past, getting back in balance, and building a new life. For more information, please contact Katie Kelley at (510) 848-6252 ext. 241 or at katiek@fpcberkeley.org.


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 is currently going through the process of separation and/or divorce or has done so in the past. Each session includes presentations and personal stories given by professional facilitators and pastors, followed by time in small groups for processing and prayer. Childcare is available for an additional fee.

Dates: Sundays, January 17-March 14, 2010
Time: 4:30-6:30 PM
Location: Room M310, McKinley Hall
Cost: $40
Registration: Click here for online registration

More Information: Download the brochure, or contact Katie Kelley at (510) 848-6252 ext. 241 or at katiek@fpcberkeley.org.  

 

Grief and Loss Support Group
If you are grieving or dealing with loss, we invite you to join this group for discussion and support. Led by experienced counselors from the Christian Lay Counseling Service, we will explore the many ways people deal with loss. It will be a confidential setting to explore issues of faith, loss, and the common and unique journey for each person. The group will be open to new members for the first two weeks.

Dates & Times: TBA
More Information: Contact the Counseling Service at (510) 548-5858 or at clcs@fpcberkeley.org.


Caregivers Support Group

For those caring for family members or friends. Gather with other caregivers to give and receive support and encouragement.

Dates & Time: Fourth Saturdays, 9:30-11:30 AM
Location: W102 (Church Lounge), Westminster Hall
More Information:
Contact Sarah Guerra-Orantes at (510) 381-1728 or at sarahorantes@hotmail.com.


Facing Infertility Support Group
Are you struggling with primary or secondary infertility? This group meets regularly to pray for one another. For more information, contact Katie Kelley at (510) 848-6252 ext. 241 or at katiek@fpcberkeley.org