Beliefs
It is our belief that "The Church" is to be a solution to people in the midst of various forms of "hell on earth." This is accomplished by coming along side those who desire a new reality, other than the one they have been living, and showing them a path to restoration. For decades, church people have made it their business to point out people's sin and condemn them for being "in sin," rather than loving and restoring them. This has been in contrast to the character of a good God, and is an unattractive witness to those who are seeking something authentic.
It is our experience that changed lives are a product of support, mentor-ship, and spiritual growth combined with structured living and accountability. When we take steps towards restoration, God will partner with us to empower us in recovery. I was through numerous treatments, on my own, to no avail. The last time I went through a program, I looked for God to be strong where I was weak while pursuing Him, and I was relieved of my compulsion to use. God is essential to true restoration, and is eager to act on your behalf. My pastor, Randy Dean, says that "God is better than you think, so you better change the way you think!" His restoration is bigger than being chemical free, it is abundant life. He's not mad, as some may have you think, but desires the best for you no matter where you are at. He loves us, even at our most unlovable moment. That is our experience!
Pastor Steve Olson's Testimony
In 1998, after 23 years of alcohol and chemical abuse, and all the chaotic dysfunction that comes with it, I found myself at a defining moment. Having reached the inevitable conclusion of my self indulgent lifestyle, I had come to the place in which I had to make the choices that I had been evading for years. The choice was simple; Life or death. To continue on the course I had been on would lead to a certain death or incarceration. I had come to a point of true repentance. Not in a sense of feeling really sorry for what I had done (or that I had been caught), but in a changing of my thought pattern and the direction of my life. The true definition of repentance is; to turn around, or change direction. My exact words were, "THIS STOPS NOW!" From that point on, through realizing my powerlessness, and realizing the transforming Power of God in all His Goodness "all things have become new." From my experience with God, as well as walking out the practical steps towards a healthy, productive life, I have lived more life in the last 10 years, than I could have dreamed of in the previous 38 years. The same process that literally rescued me from the vicious cycle of addiction is available to who ever has reached the point of saying, "THIS STOPS NOW!" This program of recovery is a faith-based program that believes that if you are willing to move in the right direction, God will do for you what you are not able to do for yourself. Please leave all religious baggage at the door.
Pastor Steve Olson