Ms. Williams teaches a New Day class
Christ House recently celebrated its 50th New Day Addictions Recovery Program graduation. New Day is a free, optional substance abuse recovery program available to all Christ House patients. The program is based on the 12-Step Recovery Program and has been thoughtfully curated for our patients by Petrina Williams, B.S., CAC II. This evidenced-based, participant-directed program focuses on identifying and dealing with difficult emotions, learning abuse-associated behaviors and consequences, and developing healthy habits and coping mechanisms. While the intense personal reflection and lifestyle change demanded by the program is challenging, Ms. Williams explains that “you can’t conquer what you don’t confront.” The students find motivation and support within the class community. Required journaling helps each student to personalize and internalize their recovery.
New Day students are guided through the first three steps of the 12-Step Program in order to build a foundation for the rest of their recovery journey.
Ms. Williams awards a graduate with his certificate and a rose
- Step 1: We admitted we were powerless over our addiction – that our lives had become unmanageable
- Step 2: Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity
- Step 3: Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood God
In order to graduate from New Day, students must attend 36 classes and complete in-class and homework assignments. First-time graduates of New Day are encouraged to complete another class cycle in order to fortify their knowledge and personal progress, while second-time graduates are encouraged to continue prioritizing their commitment to recovery and regularly attend Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meetings.
A graduate shares his recovery story during
New Day graduations are a joyous occasion at Christ House. As many staff who can step away for an hour during their day attend the ceremony, as well as Kairos members and some graduates’ family members. The graduation ceremony always includes an opportunity for each patient to share about their story, recovery, and dreams for the future.
Eleven men graduated in the 50th New Day class. Read what the program and Christ House meant to them, in their own words:
Without this program, I never would have made it.”
“I’ve seen some rehabs and I’ve never seen one like this.”
“This program gave me tools that I can use every day [to stay clean and sober].”
“I can honestly say that I am happy for once in my life… and you ain’t seen the best of me yet.”
New Day is a crucial component of the holistic care offered at Christ House. The support of our volunteers and donors ensures that this opportunity for addictions recovery is offered to each and every patient. If you are interested in attending in a New Day graduation, please contact development@christhouse.org.
The 50th New Day Graduating Class
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