‘Appalachian Churches Respond to the Opioids Crisis’

Christianity, Culture, Uncategorized 1 Minute

As the toll of overdoses continue to rise, congregations provide recovery, medical care, and redemption.

I reported and wrote this piece for Christianity Today (August 2024 online, September 2024 in print): https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2023/september/opioids-crisis-church-response-appalachia.html

Published by sjdahlman

Here's the rundown: father (two grown daughters), journalist (specialties and interests: religion, creative nonfiction), college professor who teaches journalism and other media courses (Milligan College, Tenn.), runner, hiker, frustrated soccer player, and chief steward for two cats.

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4 thoughts on “‘Appalachian Churches Respond to the Opioids Crisis’”

  1. As a man who has been in recovery from alcoholism myself, I was glad to see Mr. Dahlman’s article today. The tragic rise of addiction across the country, and intensely so in Appalachia, demands the attention of the Church, since we are God’s primary vessel for redemption on the earth. Jesus teaches us to take up our cross and follow him, and while we are carrying our cross, our Lord also urges us to give a cup of cold water in his name as well. I pray that many of you who read this article prayerfully consider how your church might, in Christ’s name, help those who suffer from addiction across Appalachia.

  2. Thanks Jim, this is a really important article! I hope it touches many believers and God uses it to spur many churches to aid the addicted and support for recovery ministies. I am currently trying to connect my church to Freedom Farm in Boone. So, we’ll see, but it was really encouraging to hear of different ministries rising up all across Appalachia Best, Rieppe PS–Hope you’ve been able to hit the trail lately. We just got out to Hinkle Creek a few weeks ago. Of course, with two little girls, we probably only did as many miles.

  3. Rieppe, it’s good to hear from you. Thanks for the encouraging word and for your work in helping people get into recovery.

    Peace.
    Jim

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    S. J. (Jim) Dahlman
    P: 423.461.8994
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  4. You, bet, Jim. Thank you so much for sharing this article with me.  Blessing, Rieppe

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