Come enjoy a delicious meal, time with new and old friends, and an opportunity to learn from an expert on a variety of topics! Pre-registration is requested.
No cost to attend, free will donation will be accepted.

COMING UP…

When: Tuesday, October 28
Speaker: Carmen Anderson MSC
Topic: Mental Health in the Bible: A Faithful Conversation

Faith and mental health are often seen as separate, but Scripture reveals that God cares deeply about the struggles of the human heart and mind. In this presentation, Carmen Anderson explores how biblical figures wrestled with despair, grief, and even suicidal thoughts—such as Elijah’s desire to give up, Naomi’s bitterness after loss, and Solomon’s battles with excess and emptiness. These stories remind us that mental health challenges are not signs of weak faith, but part of the human experience.

Carmen will also challenge the idea of “toxic gratefulness”—the tendency to cover deep wounds with forced positivity—showing how authentic prayer, honest conversation, and compassionate community can lead to true healing. Rooted in both biblical wisdom and practical insight, this presentation invites attendees to embrace a more holistic, grace-filled approach to mental health in their own lives and in the church.

When: Tuesday, November 18
Speaker: Pastor Jillene Fritch-Gallatin
Topic: Presence and Peace in the season of Advent through the lens of Grief Yoga

About This Session: In this session we’ll learn about the principles of Grief Yoga, no matter physical ability or limitations. Grief Yoga can support us in being present mentally, physically and emotionally especially during the meaningful season of Advent. Throughout our time together we’ll learn what Grief Yoga is, see a demonstration of it for different bodies, and have an opportunity to try it! Caring for ourselves allows us to nurture and care for others around us, especially when our schedule feels full.   

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grief Yoga? Grief Yoga uses movement, sound and breath to connect with and release what has been stored within the mind and body, in order to embrace greater love and peace in life. 

What do I wear to practice Grief Yoga? Participants are invited to wear whatever they are comfortable moving in: looser fitting jeans or pants, sweatpants, t-shirts, sweaters, sweatshirts are all great options for the demonstration. Whether seated, standing, or lying down, everyone can participate.

Do I have to participate in the Grief Yoga? Again-no. Grief Yoga, like all Yoga practices, invites people to remain still or move in ways that support them in body and mind. You are in total control of moving or or not the entire time. I encourage you to try it! It is a wonderful and unique experience!

What if my body is not flexible? Grief Yoga is not about physical flexibility as much as it is about being curious about what’s dwelling in our hearts and minds. Grief Yoga invites us to connect with and consider moving our bodies in a way to release areas where we may feel stuck. 

Do I have to talk about Grief? Still-no. You will be given an opportunity to share whatever you would like, and only if you would like, but no one is expected to talk. (I will be available after the session to continue the conversation if that supports you best). 

Do I need a yoga mat? Short answer: no, however yoga mats will be available but you are welcome to bring your own! Also, Grief Yoga can be done from a chair so no mat is required.

What People Say About Grief Yoga

“It was truly a moment of grace. It's inspiring when colleagues can be vulnerable with each other. You really provided a safe, grounded place to do that. Thank you again for the important work you do for yourself and others!” – Dave

“Grief Yoga was most helpful in relaxation and lifting current stress and burdens. I can honestly say this has helped ground me.” -Abbie 

“I was able to face feelings I thought I had worked through.” -Angie

Our Presenter: Pastor Jillene Fritch-Gallatin

Ordained in 2001, Jillene Fritch-Gallatin has a passion for cultivating communities to know God’s love and share it with others, especially in her current call as Senior Pastor of Grace Lutheran, Waseca.  Advocating the importance of Mental Wellness, Gallatin became certified as a 300-hour Yoga Teacher specializing in Grief Yoga as well as a Grief, Loss and End of Life Coach. In her free time Jillene enjoys spending time outside with her husband Peter, their dog Gus or their adult children. For more information check out her website: www.groundedloveforgrief.com

Lunch and Learn Schedule
11:00 Check-in at Log Lodge
11:30 Lunch is Served
12:15-1:30 Presentation/Q & A

Separate goodwill offerings will be collected upon entry for lunch and for our speaker.