Job seekers look for solace with fellow faithful

By: Associated Press - Texarkana Gazette

Associated Press Sandra Friedrich, left, and Debbie Gonzalez pray June 4 during a meeting in Beverly, Mass. The group is one of several church-related unemployment support groups that have formed around the country as the jobless rate reaches heights not seen in decades.

BEVERLY, Mass.—Her fellow job seekers offer knowing groans as Diane Castro recalls the day she was laid off: The fear of being summoned to the front office. The phones in nearby cubicles going off like grenades. Finally, a ring at her desk.

Every member of the unemployment support group m...

Published: 07/04/2009