The historical accounts of Jesus’ life leave us in no doubt that the marginalised and the vulnerable were (and still are) amongst his top priorities. Society is full of hurting people, many of them snared by addiction to alcohol and drugs. As people who follow Christ, we are clear that part of our lifestyle must involve actively helping those in need. We know we cannot solve every problem, but our job is to present a practical message of hope.
Teen Challenge is an international organisation dedicated to reaching out to addicts with focused help based on Christian values. At 5TCF we partner with the Leeds branch of Teen Challenge to provide—in the form of a purpose-built trailer—a Monday-night contact-point in Castleford for addicts. In the comfort of the trailer they can have a hot drink and a snack while talking to one of the trained team members about their problems. The aim, of course, is to introduce them to Jesus Christ, because through him they can find real hope of breaking free and staying clean.
Not just the addicts themselves are in need; their families and friends are often deeply disturbed as a result, and the trailer team reaches out to them too. At 5TCF we have two teams of workers, each team serving once a fortnight. This eases the burden, as it can be difficult and stressful work, especially on cold, wet evenings.
We are clear that part of our lifestyle must involve actively helping those in need
This work requires patience, as the nature of the addicts’ problems means it can take a long time before they feel secure enough to open up fully. For those who reach the point of genuinely wishing to be free, Teen Challenge offers places at their rehabilitation centre in Wales.