Gilroy’s First Baptist Church (8455 Wren Ave.) has a long tradition of reaching out to meet the needs of the community. This month it invites South County residents to take advantage of two courses offering support in important areas of life.
As many as half of marriages in the U.S. end in divorce, and the pressures of our current recession could well weaken the ties within any couple’s relationship. “Marriage: Built to Last” is a free, six-week video-based Bible study which will be held in room 106 of the Education Building of the church. It will begin at 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26.
This series features well-known Christian public figures:
– Chip Ingram, founder and Teaching Pastor of Living on Edge, an international radio ministry
– Dave Ramsey, a popular money-management expert who has written several books and appears regularly on television and radio, as well as in newspapers
– Kurt Warner, Super Bowl quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals, who is accompanied by his wife, Brenda.
This course is appropriate for couples who are newly-married, remarried or just wishing to improve their marital relationship. Twenty-four real-life couples from across the country discuss their personal struggles in such key areas as communication, finances, expectations and sexual intimacy. Biblical principles and personal experience are combined to offer helpful insights which can strengthen any marriage.
The other event being presented for South Country residents is “GriefShare,” a weekly seminar from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. beginning Sunday, Feb. 12. This 11-week series will also be held in room 106 of the Education Building.
GriefShare is meant for people grieving the death of a loved one, with the group meeting weekly to help participants meet challenges and move forward in rebuilding their lives. It has been described as “a place where people can find help, discover hope and experience healing.”
The seminars are completely nondenominational and open to all residents of South County. The lay people who facilitate the session are well-trained and experienced in bereavement support; they also have access to professional advice. There is no cost to attend, but an optional workbook may be purchased for $15.
Each session has three components:
– A video with presentations by experts on grief and recovery, including interviews, case studies and dramatic reenactments
– A support group discussion: After viewing the video, participants will discuss what was presented and how it pertains to their lives
– A workbook reflection: During the week, participants can sort out their emotions through journaling; then the group will spend time discussing related questions and comments.
For more information about either of these opportunities, call Gilroy First Baptist Church at (408) 847-6000.
