In the personal struggles that many face with addiction, there exists a powerful tale of hope, redemption, and life-changing love. This is the story of John and Sally Childress, the driving force behind Free! Recovery. Their journey, marked by profound struggles and victories, stands as a testament to the power of Jesus to bring about real change in the darkest of circumstances.
The Road to Redemption
John’s journey into the heart of addiction and back again is nothing short of miraculous. His life, intertwined with challenges and the grace of transformation, began its most significant pivot in a place least expected: a jail cell on Christmas Eve. It was here that John encountered Christ, setting the stage for a lifelong battle against addiction that would test his faith and ultimately demonstrate the unfailing love of God.
Despite finding faith, John’s battle with addiction didn’t end with his conversion. It resurfaced years later, casting a shadow over his newfound life in Christ. His struggle illuminates a profound truth: addiction does not discriminate, touching the lives of believers and non-believers alike. Yet, it was through this very struggle that the vision for Free! Recovery was born—a vision deeply rooted in the belief that through Christ, anyone can find freedom from addiction.
Sally’s Journey
Equally pivotal to the inception of Free! Recovery, Sally’s journey weaves seamlessly with John’s, shedding light on the profound impact faith can have in surmounting life’s challenges. Despite being raised in a devout Christian family, Sally encountered her own set of trials. Throughout her early adulthood, she faced a persistent struggle with depression, and her search for relief led her down paths of disordered eating and unhealthy relationships—choices that only distanced her further from the relief she sought.
Sally’s story is a powerful testament to the often unspoken difficulties many Christians endure, emphasising the critical importance of a ministry like Free! Recovery, which offers empathy, support, and understanding.
The Birth of Free! Recovery
From the depths of their experiences, John and Sally founded Free! Recovery, not just as a ministry but as a mission to extend the hope and recovery they had found in Christ to others struggling with addiction. Their ministry is a living, breathing narrative of redemption, offering support, resources, and a community for those seeking a way out of addiction’s grasp. The impact of Free! Recovery is a beacon of light for many, showcasing the undeniable truth that with Jesus, recovery is not just possible; it’s within reach.
Your Part in This Story
As you reflect on John and Sally’s powerful journey of faith and recovery, we invite you to consider how you might join this transformative mission. Whether by sharing their story, engaging with our resources, or leading a recovery group, your involvement can light the path to recovery for others. Discover how you can echo the love and redemption found in Christ and become a beacon of hope in your community.
Download Free! Recovery course to learn more and take the next step towards change. Together, let’s expand the mission of Free! Recovery, transforming lives one story at a time.
