Beverly, Mass. (AP) - As the unemployment rate climbs, some job seekers are looking for help at church.

Church-related unemployment support groups have formed all over the country as the jobless rate climbed to 9.5 percent in June, the worst in 26 years.

The groups offer practical guidance, such as resume reviews and networking tips. But members say the groups are also about refining their faith during a difficult time.

Hospitality Industry Worker Debbie Trainor, who's a member of a support group in Beverly, Mass., says she sees God as a partner when preparing for a job interview.

University of Richmond Professor Doug Hicks says faith communities have real relevance to the unemployed. He says being jobless affects a sense of meaning and contribution, things that have a spiritual dimension.
(COPYRIGHT 2009 BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.)