PERRYSBURG – The Perrysburg campus of CedarCreek Church, 29129 Lime City Road, will host two
"Surviving the Holidays" events in the efforts of reaching out to those struggling through the
loss of a loved one or facing a painful divorce this holiday season.
The first event will take place from Nov. 10, with the second on Dec. 8. Both are slated to run from 7 to
9 p.m.
The cost is $10 per person and includes a "Surviving the Holidays" workbook with more than 30
daily readings filled with inspiration and helpful insights to facing the days ahead.
Pre-registration is encouraged at www.CedarCreek.tv under "Classes & Seminars" in the
"Around the Creek" portal or by visiting Connecting Point during the weekend services.
Childcare will be provided through fifth grade.
"When most people consider the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays they picture a festive time of
celebration and cheer," said Stephen Micham, Care Group Coordinator at CedarCreek Church.
"But there are many in the midst of a painful divorce or struggling through the loss of a loved
one," he added. "Speaking from personal experience, the prospect of facing the holiday season
with a splintered family can be emotionally overwhelming."
The programs are designed to provide hope to the grieving and let them know they’re not alone.
Jennifer Funkhouser, CedarCreek’s Life Support Administrative Coordinator, said, "My father passed
away three days after Christmas when I was only nine years old, so it has always been a difficult time
of year for me."
She added, "It became almost unbearable after the separation and ultimate divorce from my husband
who originally proposed Christmas Eve."
She continued, "I am thankful for the Peace of Christ but still feel a little raw emotionally as the
Thanksgiving holiday approaches.
"Having the opportunity to connect with others facing a similar prospect to learn some healthy ways
to heal and experience the joy that usually defines this time of year would have made a significant
difference for me."
The seminar features practical suggestions, guidance, and reassurance through video interviews with
counselors, experts, and individuals who have experienced the holiday season after the separation from a
spouse or death of a loved one.
Topics to be discussed include:
¥ "Why the Holidays Are Tough,"
¥ "What Emotions to Expect,"
¥ "How to Prepare," and
¥ "Using the Holidays to Help You Heal."
Additional information is available at www.CedarCreek.tv under "Classes & Seminars" in
the "Around the Creek" portal, at the Community Care table during the weekly services, or by
calling the offices of CedarCreek Church at (419) 661-8661.