GSN Recovery Orientation for Churches

Inaugural meeting for churches to learn about the opioid crisis.

Loudon, NH: April 13 was a day of encouragement and inspiration on a topic that is often incredibly dark. The addiction crisis is hitting families across America, leaving many in a desperate state. Fortunately, as Christians, we know that there is a hope named Jesus that can pierce through any darkness.

This inaugural Recovery Orientation put on by the Good Samaritan Network, was intended to inform and inspire the church body to become more aware and active around this topic from a Christ-Centered perspective.

There were over 70 attendees who work for local recovery ministries or belong to a local church. Many nodded their heads as speakers shared their testimony of seeing a loved one suffer through the addiction process.

Speakers who have a Christian faith and experience in a recovery ministry shared their perspectives and testimonies. It was a diverse group of speakers from as far west as Keene, locations in Manchester, and even Massachusetts.

The Good Samaritan Network and its partners see the addiction issue as one that runs deeper than the symptoms of addictions. We believe that everyone, as Kathie Saari from Gates Recovery Center puts it, are treasures in the eyes of the Lord. Despite their circumstances, the situation does not define the individual but reveals a deeper need for our Lord and Savior’s healing.

It was clear that the heart of Mark 12:30-31 was present,

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

Speakers and attendees alike had the Jesus at the center of their hearts and respect for each other around such sensitive and often overwhelming topic.

Next steps are to continue informing and inspiring churches across New Hampshire. If you think your church or a friends church would be interested in learning more we are happy to connect.

The goal is to see recovery teams develop in churches that are able to connect with GSN resources and experts while serving the families in their church community. Further trainings are being planned so please like our Facebook page for the most current information or visit our website at www.goodsamaritanetwork.org.

Together we can see the healing of our church family and friends as they are transformed through the healing power of Jesus.