Author: Claire Carter

Accomplishing More Together

On Friday 17 July, people involved in Christian addiction and recovery work across Yorkshire and the North East came together at St Philip’s Church Hall in Leeds for a long-awaited regional gathering.

After a long time without a regional meeting, it was wonderful to have the opportunity to come together again — to share stories, encourage one another, pray and simply spend time with others who understand the joys and challenges of this important work.

Six people gathered, and although it was a small group, there was a strong sense that something meaningful was happening.

The theme behind ISAAC’s UK regional meetings is ‘Accomplishing More Together’ — and this gathering was a beautiful reminder of why connection matters.

A space to share, listen and encourage

ISAAC regional meetings exist to connect, encourage and equip Christians involved in any aspect of addictions and recovery work. This includes paid workers, volunteers and those supporting a loved one as a friend or family member.

They are also open to those who aren’t currently ISAAC members, providing an opportunity to discover more about the ISAAC community and connect with others who share a passion for seeing people find freedom and restoration.

One of the most valuable aspects of the Leeds gathering was simply having the opportunity to hear one another’s stories and experiences.

Gerard, who travelled from Newcastle, described the time spent together as “a blessed day in Leeds”, saying that he was “truly inspired and encouraged” by everyone’s contributions and by the way God had brought the group together.

He also appreciated learning more about ISAAC and hearing about how the Leeds branch of Our Father’s House operates in practice.

That sharing of experience is at the heart of regional gatherings. No two ministries or recovery projects are exactly the same, but there is so much we can learn from one another.

Encouragement for the journey

Addiction and recovery ministry can be deeply rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Supporting people through some of the most difficult seasons of their lives can be emotionally demanding, and those involved can sometimes experience burnout or compassion fatigue.

Regional meetings create a space to step back, reflect and receive encouragement from others who understand.

They provide opportunities for prayer, sharing resources and expertise, discussing good practice, supporting new leaders and projects, celebrating successes, and exploring questions around recovery, theology and ministry.

And perhaps most importantly, they remind us that we don’t have to do this work alone.

One of those who attended reflected: “Like everyone else I feel encouraged by hearing everyone’s stories and journeys.” They went on to say they would continue to pray and were “expectant for more to come from our meetings.”

That sense of expectation is exciting. After such a long time without gathering together regionally, there is now an opportunity to build on what has begun and see how God might continue to bring people together across Yorkshire and the North East.

A community growing together

There was a real sense of gratitude following the meeting.

It was described as “a blessed day” and an opportunity to “share stories, encourage one another, and simply enjoy being together.”

The encouragement didn’t end when the meeting finished. Those who attended were encouraged to continue sharing what they are doing, as well as anything they feel God may be speaking to them following their time together.

This ongoing connection is an important part of what regional groups can offer. A meeting may only last a few hours, but the relationships, conversations, prayers and ideas that come from it can continue long afterwards.

As Romans 15:5–6 reminds us:

“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

These words provide a wonderful picture of what we hope regional communities will become — places where people are strengthened, encouraged and equipped to continue the work God has called them to.

You don’t have to do this alone

Whether you are already an ISAAC member or have never connected with ISAAC before, the UK regional meetings are open to anyone involved in addiction and recovery work who would benefit from connection, encouragement and support.

There are regional groups across the UK, providing opportunities to meet others, pray together, share ideas, learn from one another and discover ways to collaborate.

If you are involved in Christian addiction and recovery ministry in Yorkshire, the North East, or elsewhere in the UK, we would love to connect you with others in your region.

• Click on JOIN A REGIONAL GROUP / WHATSAPP if you would like to be connected to the regional coordinator so that you can become part of a group.
• Click here – ‘Regional (UK) Meetings‘ – to see the UK regions that currently host an ISAAC group, or click here to find out when the next meeting is.

Because when we encourage one another, share what we have learnt and work together, we can accomplish so much more.

Together, we can support one another, strengthen one another and continue to see lives transformed.