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A Shelby County church is opening its doors to the Chilton County community for participation in its Griefshare program, beginning Aug. 15.

Hosted by Concord Church in Calera, the group will meet each Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in Room 110 in the church’s main building.

“Griefshare is a Christian faith and Bible-based grief program, which is part of a network of support groups at over 12,000 churches worldwide,” according to a Concord Church press release.

This year’s group leaders are Glenda Osburn and Bessie Dean, who have both experienced grief.

“I always knew I would see my loved ones again, but that fact has deepened since Griefshare,” Osburn said. “Never did I expect to lead a Griefshare group, as I do not talk well in front of a group. However, I consider it a blessing from God to help someone else.”

Osburn and Dean will facilitate the 12- to 13-week curriculum, which includes lessons with videos and group discussion.

“The videos and lessons range from the journey and challenges of grief, to how a loved one’s death can affect friendships and other relationships, to finding new motivation and meaning in life afterwards,” the release reads. “Each module is self-contained, so participants can start at any given week to receive help.”

Participation is $15, which covers the cost of a workbook.

The group is open to people of all ages.

“It doesn’t matter what walk of life you come from, because grief is grief,” according to the release.

According to Concord Church, the Griefshare support groups began 15 years ago to help people “heal from grief and be able to forge ahead to the future to rebuild their lives without their loved one.”

Sharing personal stories of loss is not required at any time, although participants are welcome to share and may experience healing doing so.

“Just as we cry together, we also laugh together. You’d be surprised how much humor there is as grievers begin to heal,” according to the release.

Concord Church is located at 11215 County Rd. 22, just off Highway 31.

“You can just come if you like, or register online at www.concordchurch.tv.com,” according to the release.

Chilton County churches are welcome to host their own Griefshare programs, although Osburn recommends leaders attend a Griefshare program prior to starting one.

For more information, email Glenda J. Osburn at gjosburn1@gmail.com.