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So. Calif. ARC
by Major Deborah Flagg –
“No turning back” was the theme as more than 300 beneficiaries of the Southern California Adult Rehabilitation Centers gathered at Camp Mt. Crags for the annual weekend retreat. It was a time for worship, fellowship and recreation as the delegates enjoyed “clean” comedians, athletic competitions, spirited and moving testimonies, small group prayers and musical entertainment.
Steve Arterburn, director of New Life Clinics and author of several books and a popular radio ministry, addressed the general delegation on issues of recovery and character building. The officers and directors of rehabilitation services from the various centers were privileged to meet with Steve in a small group setting, where he encouraged them with thoughts on “Be not weary in well-doing.”
Commissioners David and Doreen Edwards, territorial commander and president of Women’s Organizations, joined the delegates for a time of praise and worship on Saturday evening. Establishing an instant rapport with his audience, Edwards led the group in singing the lyrics to the popular James Brown song, “I Feel Good.” “I feel good,” the Commissioner stated, “and you can feel good too!” On Sunday morning, the Commissioners led the group in worship, with Commissioner Doreen Edwards sharing her personal testimony and Commissioner David Edwards bringing the Bible message. The moving of the Holy Spirit was evident during the time of commitment as many moved to the altar for prayer.
“Awesome!” seemed to be the adjective of choice as many of the beneficiaries made fresh commitments to God and to sobriety during the weekend. An especially meaningful time was in the Sunday morning prayer groups, when the delegates gathered for prayer with their brothers and sisters from the same center.
The delegates left the camp with the verse from Jeremiah ringing in their ears, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Major Dan Starrett, ARC commander, summed up the weekend by saying, “Not only was the theme successful in encouraging the delegates not to turn back, but the retreat also pointed many in a new and challenging direction. We pray that they will remember this long after the weekend is over.”
