ROCKINGHAM – “I hate meetings. I hate Higher power. I hate anyone who has a program. To all who come in contact with me: I wish you death and I wish you suffering.”
“Allow me to introduce myself, I am the Disease of Addiction: cunning, baffling, and powerful-that’s me. I have killed millions, and I am pleased. I love to catch you with the element of surprise. I love pretending I am your friend and lover. I have given you comfort, have I not?”
Kind of gives you the chills, doesn’t it?
This quotation from an anonymous writer was shared with the people in attendance by Beth Taylor on Monday evening, May 21, at New Life Church, 575 Airport Road in Rockingham.
She and her husband Brian Taylor are the group facilitators for Celebrate Recovery, a Christ-centered 12 step program for anyone struggling with hurt, pain, or addiction of any kind. The program was founded in 1991 at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California by John Baker and Rick Warren, incorporating Biblical comparisons using verses from the Bible, and also has 8 recovery principles based on the Beatitudes. It is now being used in over 35,000 churches nationwide, with over 5 million people completing the program.
“There is a huge need for this kind of program in Richmond County,” Beth Taylor stated. She and her husband, a probation officer, were asked to assist with Celebrate Recovery by Pastor Gary Richardson.
Beth once served as Executive Director of the Scotland County Domestic Violence Shelter. A victim of domestic violence herself, she has faced many obstacles in her life and wants to help others through this ministry.
“Some of the issues that are in our society now include divorce, sexual abuse, drug addiction, food addiction, gambling addiction, alcoholism, codependency, domestic violence, pornography—there are so many. Celebrate Recovery can make a difference in the lives of those who attend.”
Those in attendance Monday night enjoyed a delicious spaghetti dinner with salad and all the fixings, including homemade cake. Dinners will be served on a monthly basis.
An overview of the program itself was shared, along with videos and opportunities for sharing and questions. Group guidelines, such as confidentiality, supporting one another, and sharing time were reviewed. Attendees were asked to bring a friend next week if possible, and to share information with their home churches.
An overview of Day 1, entitled The First Step, opens with Romans 7:18. “I know that nothing good lives within me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.” The program begins here, admitting that we are powerless over our addictions and compulsive behaviors, and that our lives are unmanageable. Admitting the need for help and allowing God to be the one in control—that is The First Step.
Childcare will be available each week, and transportation will also be provided if needed. Meetings will be held on Mondays at 6:30 pm. Please contact Beth Taylor at (910)995-3612 with any questions.
