Oregon Problem Gambling Helpline
A model for a congregational team addiction ministry
This model was presented in an “Impact!” newsletter article on the role of the faith community. It is presented as one example of an approach that could be taken.
STEP 1 - Congregation clergy, youth directors, social ministries staff and key lay people attend an introductory one-day training, The Role of the Faith Community in Addiction Prevention. They learn about the role of the congregation in prevention, intervention and recovery and how to take the first steps toward initiating a recovery ministry.
STEP 2 - Participants from the introductory training go back to their own congregation and conduct an exploratory meeting to determine interest in a recovery ministry.
STEP 3 - Congregational representatives conduct a survey to determine the needs of the congregation, to identify volunteers for the team and to gain support for the ministry.
STEP 4 - Representatives inventory the congregation to identify the resources of the congregation and to determine how to integrate the ministry into the life of the congregation.
STEP 5 - Team members attend a Congregational Team Training, which provides basic information about prevention, intervention and recovery; introduces them to community resource people and programs; and assists them in developing a preliminary plan for their congregation.
STEP 6 - Teams return to their congregation and initiate a team ministry, using a step-by-step guide that includes tools for assessing and planning congregational initiatives. The manual includes a ready-to-use survey, inventory, team planning forms, plus sample team brochures, handbooks and worship services.
STEP 7 - Congregational teams work with community resources and continue their relationships with other teams through ongoing consultation, support meetings and additional training.