Grief Matters Wokshops

It’s been almost one year since Pastor Chris Carson’s untimely death and it’s only appropriate that we, as a congregation, would take time out to mark his passing. The sudden or expected loss of a beloved pastor is a deeply felt experience — not only personally, but communally, as a spiritual leader’s presence often shapes the identity, rhythm, and vision of the congregation.

To honor that desire, we will have a two-day workshop to help the congregation continue processing the grief and loss that have been felt in this last year.

Please reserve your space by calling the church office at 321-783-6085 or sending an email to office@riversidepresbyterianchurch.org

Workshop I

Tuesday, July 1 at 6:00pm

Together in Grief, Together in Hope: A Faith-Centered Journey through Communal Loss

This compassionate, interactive workshop is designed to help faith communities navigate the collective grief of losing a pastor. Through theological reflection, psychological insight, and communal dialogue, participants will gain tools to honor their grief, understand the grieving process, and move toward healing while cherishing their pastor’s legacy.

The objectives of this workshop are that, by the end, participants will be able to:

Understand the stages of grief and how they apply to communal experiences
Explore multiple grief models, including faith-based and psychological perspectives
Reflect on how anger, doubt, and faith intersect in grief
Discover compassionate, faith-centered coping tools for individuals and the congregation
Learn practical strategies for supporting one another in mourning and in hope
Begin building a legacy of remembrance and renewal

Workshop II

Tuesday, July 8 at 6:00pm

Finding Meaning and Hope: A Congregation’s Journey through Grief

This workshop is designed to support our church community as we navigate the complex emotions of loss together. Through shared reflection, scripture, and open conversation, we aim to acknowledge our grief, explore how faith can bring purpose in the midst of sorrow, and inspire hope for the future. Our goal is to foster healing, strengthen our communal bonds, and encourage each member to find renewed meaning and peace on this journey.

The objectives of this workshop are that, by the end, participants will be able to:

Recognize and affirm the complex emotions involved in communal grief
Reflect on biblical passages that offer comfort, meaning, and hope in times of loss
Share personal experiences and insights in a supportive group environment.
Identify ways faith can help transform grief into renewed purpose
Explore practical and spiritual strategies for moving forward individually and as a congregation

Rev. Dr. Martin Concepción

Workshops will be lead by Rev. Dr. Martin Concepción, who serves as the pastor at El Buen Vecino Presbyterian Church in Kissimmee and as the Bereavement Services Manager for VITAS Healthcare in Melbourne, which provides psychospiritual care to individuals at end-of-life and for their families.