Two support groups for people suffering the loss of a loved one are being formed in Barton County.

Beginning in November, a Grief Support Group will be offered at St. John’s Parish Hall in Hoisington to any interested person. The purpose is to offer help and encouragement after the death of a spouse, child, family member or friend.
The sessions will involve fellowship, sharing and prayer. No counseling will be offered and confidentiality will be respected. Participant are welcome to begin attending at any point. Each session is “self contained,” so they do not have to be attended  in sequence.
The group will meet at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at the St. John’s Parish Hall, 122 East 5th St. in Hoisington. The first meeting is set for Tuesday, Nov. 17.

Also starting again is Sisters of Hope, an outreach of First Assembly of God Church, 601 S. Patton Road in Great Bend. It was formed in 2013 to reach out to women whose husbands had died in recent months, up to approximately three years.
The meetings are non-denominational and are intended to bring hope through biblical scripture, prayer and interaction with other women facing similar challenges. There is no cost associated with this group because currently all materials are provided through voluntary donations to Sisters of Hope.
An informational meeting has been scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29 in the North Concourse of the church. Those attending are asked to park on the northwest side of the church. The entrance will be marked by streamers and balloons for the guests’ convenience.
Anyone who is unable to attend the informational meeting but interested in learning more about the Sisters of Hope meetings, which will begin the first week of November, may call Marilyn Beary at 620-796-2010 (home) or 620-617-2386 (cell)