Facing trials or suffering is a common experience in the Christian life, but walking through those experiences alone is not the ideal design. Because of this understanding that community is a vital part of growth, care groups exist. These groups focus on a specific need in the context of a group setting where hurting people can look at the Scriptures with others who are having a similar experience. Pastor Steve Tuck oversees two of the main care groups available at East Cooper: GriefShare and DivorceCare. Both are Bible-based programs led by experienced facilitators. Once a week, these groups meet to pray together, hear each other’s stories, and grow in their knowledge of God’s Word and grace. In both of these groups, about half of the participants are not yet members at East Cooper; they are people searching for comfort and understanding in a difficult time who have been invited by Steve, a member of the ECBC family, or previous group participants. This past year, Steve has befriended the new participants and seen how this curriculum is growing and changing them. Two participants who met in the group have built a friendship and connection outside of meetings. They are caring for one another as they both navigate a season of grief. Without this class, they wouldn’t know each other, but now, they can call on and care for one another. “In these groups, I have seen God’s people walk through difficult times and trust the Lord in powerful ways. I have been blessed by that,” Steve shared. “We have many who come because church members, who are their friends or family members, are concerned about them and desire to help them. My prayer is that more members of our church will remember that these ministries are available and encourage those they care about to attend.“

“I was so incredibly grateful to not have to walk through this season of grief alone! The GriefShare facilitators were the hands and feet of Jesus to me through sharing their personal journeys of loss, sorrow, and pain that comes from the death of a loved one. I am so very thankful that ECBC offers this help to those who are grieving.”

“GriefShare has helped me understand that what I am experiencing is normal. It has reinforced what I know to be true, that God is always faithful.”

“It was great to have a safe place to share my hurts, thoughts, and feelings with others who have gone through this before me. I would highly recommend DivorceCare to anyone going through a divorce  no matter where they are at in their journey.”

“DivorceCare has shown me that I am not alone and my situation is not unique to myself. It helped me lean into God and my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.”