Losing a loved one is difficult, but Jesus reminds us in Matthew in 5:4, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

But many people today celebrate the life of their lost loved ones, turning grief into joy and appreciation for their time on Earth. And that’s what The Church of the Holy Presence Church in DeLand hopes to convey this fall when they host a brand-new grief workshop called “Because you were here … “

“This is a faith-based grief workshop with a twist of joy, celebrating our loved ones,” said Dawn McDonald in a Holy Presence news release.

The workshop will be an extensive one, running eight weeks. Held only on Friday evenings from 6:30 to 8, the workshop runs Oct. 19 to Dec. 7 with a mini-service and Eucharist included. “Unlike the traditional grief workshops, the emphasis is on our walk with our Lord and the comfort we find in Him when we mourn,” McDonald said.

The two-month workshop is free and open to everyone. There is no dress code. Participants are asked to come as you are.

Church of the Holy Presence is located at 355 N. Kepler Road, DeLand, FL, 32724. To register for the event, please call the church office at 386-734-5228.