There is Help for Addiction was the theme at Stonecroft‘s March meeting, which was held at the Shelly Beach Methodist Church.
Speakers Jo-Ann Latt and Jono Downham, both from Genesis Project Exodus, which is affiliated to the Norwegian Settlers’ Church, which is an amazing ministry for those ‘impacted by the slavery of addiction’.
Facilitator, Jono, explained that Project Exodus was an innovative, groundbreaking strategy which addressed issues of substance dependence, compulsive disorders and addiction in brand new ways. “It operates as a recovery group to help people rebuild their lives with a biblical foundation of their identity in God and embrace positive, wholesome and healthy recovery patterns.”
He said in the ‘olden days’ it was taboo to speak about addiction. Through his ministry work he learned that many in the community were struggling to help their loved ones who were addicts.
He realised that he did not have the tools to offer and was then approached by a life coach about training. “It was God’s appointed time and this encouraged a group from the church to undergo the necessary training in Durban in order to be able to offer professional help. This is how Project Exodus came into operation.”
He said the project helped those in the ‘wilderness’ to rebuild and refocus their lives by offering wise counsel and support. “Every individual has the ability to make the right decision.”
Jo-Ann, who is a supporter at Project Exodus, shared her life testimony. She explained being a ‘support’ one needed God. “You cannot do it alone. And while you can control your reactions and emotions – you cannot control what someone else does. But you need boundaries in place, do not become an enabler which allows someone to continue with their addiction.” She has also started a Women of Worth group “because women always put others before themselves”.
Jono also performed the musical interlude and tasty tea was provided by the Methodist Women’s Auxiliary.
Stonecroft’s new committee members comprise Vanessa Howard-Tripp, Angie Meek, Lizzie Webster, Bronwyn Staples, Laura Vogt, Irene Harris and Gloria Bester.
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