FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:  Jessica Henry, Communications Specialist
717-480-3767 | jhenry@bethesdamission.org

BETHESDA MISSION HOLDS GRADUATION CEREMONY FOR MEN’S RECOVERY PROGRAM

Harrisburg, PA – On Thursday evening June 27, Bethesda Men’s Mission will welcome a new group of men to the long-term recovery program graduates, also known as “Helmsmen”. The ceremony will be held at 7 p.m. in the Men’s Mission chapel. The graduates will share some of their stories, receive certificates, and hear a charge of encouragement. Family, friends, other graduates, volunteers, and anyone interested in hearing how God has worked in the lives of these men are welcome and encouraged to attend.

“The recognition of what these men have accomplished is important seeing as so many of their past recognitions were negative,” Men’s Mission Director Bill Christian said. “Also for these men, setting a goal and accomplishing it is huge because they often give up before seeing something through. As Romans 5 states, tribulation (difficulty of seeing the program through) brings perseverance; then proven character; then hope. Graduation is a celebration of that!”

During an initial assessment period of up to 20 days, guests may enroll in the long-term recovery program. Over 70% of Bethesda’s guests have a substance abuse problem and accompanying dysfunctional attitudes and behaviors. By providing a Christian framework for change based on the 12-step program, hearts and lives are freed from the bondage of addiction. Sharing, praying, reconciling broken relationships, and showing God’s love are emphasized in this program.

 MEDIA WELCOME AND APPRECIATED!

Bethesda Mission has been meeting the needs of hurting and homeless people for over 104 years.  Providing shelter for an average of 110 men and 25 women and children in two facilities in the city and an after-school program, Monday – Friday at our Community Center, located at 15 & Herr Streets, the Mission served nearly 130,000 meals and assisted over 3,000 separate individuals just last year! View our recent statistics here.

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