_edited.png)
Virtual Grief Circle
Being with Grief in a Sacred Circle of Belonging
Ancient Wisdom.
Modern Grief.
Healing in Community.
For centuries, our ancestors gathered in circles to grieve, to heal, and to find strength in one another. In the Befriending Grief Circle, we step back to that sacred time when grieving was not an isolated experience but a communal journey.
Here, we honor the ancient tradition of coming together in a circle, where each voice is heard, and every story is honored.
In a society that often misunderstands grief, finding a community that truly gets it can make all the difference.
Winter Grief Circle Beginning Soon!
Location
We will meet by Zoom
Schedule
Circle begins early 2025
Cost
$40/mo.
​
What is a grief circle?
Your Grief Guide
Andrea Gerrard
I am an Integrative Grief Guide, writer, and teacher who has spent over three decades navigating the profound depths of grief through illness, death, and significant life transitions. In the early years, I struggled to control the overwhelming pain and uncertainty, but over time, I learned to trust in the grieving process as nature's inherent path to healing.
By embracing grief as a guide, I discovered the power of reconnecting with my true nature, realigning with my inner rhythms, and leaning on the strength of community. Now, I bring together my years of wisdom and experience to support others in their journey through loss, helping them find their own path to healing and wholeness.
Grief has never been private; it has always been communal. Subconsciously, we are awaiting the presence of others, before we can feel safe enough to drop to our knees on the holy ground of sorrow.”
​
― Francis Weller, The Wild Edge of Sorrow: Rituals of Renewal and the Sacred Work of Grief
Take a Closer Look
Weekly Virtual Gatherings
We meet online every week, providing a consistent space for connection and healing. Join from anywhere, knowing that this circle is a steady source of support.
Recordings Available
Sessions are recorded and made available to participants, ensuring you stay connected even if you miss a week.
Focus on Sharing and Listening
The heart of this circle is in the stories we share and the deep listening we offer to one another. There is no advice-giving, only a supportive environment where your grief is seen and heard.
Compassionate Guidance
Led by a compassionate grief guide: As your facilitator, I bring years of experience in navigating grief, offering a compassionate and understanding approach to guiding the circle.
Safe and Sacred Space
Each session is a sacred container where your grief is witnessed with compassion and without judgment. Your presence and your story are valued, whether you share actively or simply listen.
Flow with the Seasons
Every season provides unique healing properties from Mother Nature herself. Our work together will cycle through the seasons, with circles beginning and ending with each transition.
New to Grief Circles? Here's what to expect.
A grief circle is a sacred and supportive gathering where individuals come together to share their experiences of loss, listen to others, and offer mutual support. Rooted in ancient traditions of communal grieving, these circles provide a safe space for participants to express their emotions, share their stories, and be witnessed without judgment.
We begin and end each circle by lighting a candle and taking a moment to remember our loved ones. This simple ritual allows us to set our intentions and recognize the sacredness of our time together.
After setting our intentions and reflecting, we’ll move into the topic for the evening. Because our work is experiential in nature and aligned with the seasons, each circle provides grief-tending practices designed to support your mind, body, spirit, and soul all within a container of sacred community.
As circle members, our role is to witness one another - to hold space for the pain, the joy, the stories, the laughter, and the tears. We honor all that comes into the circle. This is the experience of being human.
We’ll intentionally and mindfully close our sacred circle as we set intentions for how we'll carry the circle's energy and grief practices into the rest of our week.
Befriending Grief Circle FAQs
“Grief is not a problem to be solved but a process to be lived through with consciousness and compassion.”
​
Jack Kornfield - A Path with Heart: A Guide Through the Perils and Promises of Spiritual Life
What is the Befriending Grief Circle? The Befriending Grief Circle is an online group designed to provide a sacred, supportive space where individuals can explore their grief through mind, body, and spirit practices. Participants will connect with others who are also navigating loss, sharing their stories and experiences in a confidential and nurturing environment.
When can I join? The virtual grief circles run seasonally, so you are able to join at the beginning of each season.
Is the Befriending Grief Circle religious? The Befriending Grief Circle is not affiliated with any specific religion. It is a spiritually inclusive space where participants from all backgrounds can explore grief in a way that resonates with their personal beliefs and practices.
Do I have to be seen on camera? Yes, I ask that all participants use their cameras during the Befriending Grief Circle. Being seen helps build trust and connection in our intimate group, creating a safe space where everyone feels valued. If you have concerns, please reach out to discuss them. Your comfort is important to me.
Is this circle a form of therapy? While the Befriending Grief Circle provides a deeply supportive and healing environment, it is not a substitute for therapy or professional mental health care. It is designed as a peer support group with a focus on community, connection, and holistic grief practices.
What is the time commitment? You can attend as many sessions or as few as you want each month. *note that the cost of these circles is monthly and the sessions are recorded, so there will be no refunds for missed circles.
Who can join the Befriending Grief Circle? Anyone who has experienced a significant loss and is ready to explore their grief in a holistic, supportive community is welcome to join. This circle is suitable for those who are comfortable sharing in a group setting and are open to engaging with practices that support healing on all levels—mind, body, and spirit.
What happens when I join? As soon as you sign up you will receive a link to our online community forum where you will be able to dive in immediately to a supportive group setting.
What if I miss a session? Each session is recorded and made available to participants, so if you need to miss a week, you can watch the replay at your convenience. This ensures that you can stay connected to the circle even if you’re unable to attend a session live. Although, there is nothing quite like meeting live so I encourage you to meet with the group whenever possible.
How many people will be in the Our circles will include no more than 12 people at a time.
What should I prepare for the sessions? You’ll need a quiet, comfortable space where you can participate without interruptions. It may also be helpful to have a journal, a candle, or other items that help you create a sacred space at home.
What if I’m not sure if this circle is right for me? If you’re unsure whether the Befriending Grief Circle is the right fit, attending the free Autumn Equinox event can give you a sense of what to expect. You can also reach out with any questions or concerns, and I’ll be happy to help you determine if this circle aligns with your needs.
Join the Circle
The next circle begins January 4, 2025!
How to Register
-
Click on "Join the Circle".
-
Register and Pay.
-
That's it! You're in. You will then receive confirmation and further information about the upcoming circle!
On the Fence? Let's Connect!
Are you interested but need a little more information about this grief circle? I'd love to chat with you.
These things can be a little intimidating if you don't know the facilitator. Please schedule a free call so we can decide if this is right for you at this time. Should you be in need of other resources, I'd be happy to help you.