On Saturday, May 16, Zion welcomed award-winning author and photographer, John Noltner as he installed an exhibit of new stories about addiction and recovery as pasrt of the weekend Recovering Peace Conference.
The Zion Addiction Awareness Ministry (ZAAM), who organized this event, worked right up to the last minute to get everything in place for the day. The goals of this conference were for participants to focus on healing in addiction and recovery, and to learn more about recovery for themselves and others they care about—to convey a personal message that “you are here and you matter.” The following conference presenters shared stories and conversations about what helped them move toward
healing:
- John Noltner collected over 30 stories from participants, speakers, and resource table people which he put together in a powerful slide show that was shown Sunday morning as part of his worship message.
- Pam Lanhart shared her story, losing a son to an opioid overdose and the organization she created to help families move toward healing, articulating what “love first” dynamics look like to foster recovery.
- Pastor Ed Treat from the Center of Addiction and Faith shared how his personal story led him to help churches be a safe and welcoming place for people who can find help rather than be afraid of the stigma.
- Deryl Glaze gave people hope and motivation to grow in their recovery journey, reminding them that they mattered and how to recover well.
- Per Nilsen shared the power of faith practices in recovery Lord’s Prayer. So powerful! People are still talking about it!!
- Bill LeClair told about how the Recovery Cafe Anoka has fostered hope and healing in those who gather there and how Zion has become a vital partner and participant.
- Lori Blaukat – shared how Anoka County is working to change the narrative about Mental Health and recovery, how a community—large or small— can reframe stories by making it OK to talk about it.
- Patti Constant and her panel discussion members shared stories of people caught up in the opioid crisis & how Anoka County’s leadership in creating the FACES of HOPE documentary is making a difference.
Zion has taken a step in becoming one voice with other organizations in this community to promote healing for people in Recovery from Addiction and to promote Mental Health and Wellbeing.
