I have had a burden for helping those in addiction for 36 years as a pastor.
We moved back to Franklin in March 2015 to create a residential men’s addiction recovery program. At that time, there was no center and no program. A lot of people joined together to fix up an old church camp next to the Cullasaja River after we were able to secure a lease. My wife, Betty, worked as our administrative assistant.
I wrote a book, published last month, about the start of the ministry and the many miracles and testimonies that were to follow. The book is listed on Amazon and is called “Addiction Recovery and the Heart of God, Where Miracles Happen Often.” It is about God’s heart of grace and mercy, as well as the importance of discipleship as is mentioned in Matthew 28:19-20. It is also about stepping out in faith and the challenges and need for perseverance that goes along with that.
I retired from Men’s Challenge of the Smokies, as of August 2024, and a wonderful new executive director, Michael Stephens, is now leading this critical ministry. The awesome staff continues to be the backbone of the ministry as well as the staff and volunteers at the thrift store. Betty retired as well.
Seventy-nine men have graduated the one-year program, thus far, and an equal number of men have been baptized in the Cullasaja River at the center. Salvation in Jesus Christ and discipleship in His Word are the keys to Men’s Challenge of the Smokies’ success.
A book signing will take place at Daltons Christian Bookstore Saturday, May 24, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Part of the proceeds from the sale of “Addiction Recovery and the Heart of God, Where Miracles Happen Often” will be donated to Men’s Challenge of the Smokies.