How can I move forward, if I can’t shake my past?

"If it weren't for Hope Ministries, without a doubt I'd be back in prison, out there still using or even dead," says Journey of Hope graduate John Hall.

After being consumed by substance abuse for 30 years, John Hall says the Lord had new plans for him. "He presented the opportunity for me to go to Hope Ministries when I was released from prison."

When John first joined our STEP Program at our Bethel Mission facility, his plan was to "go through the motions and return to my old ways," as he'd done in other programs. "But after going to chapel every night and to church on Sundays, I got to know Christ and started to change my way of thinking!" he says.

John transitioned to our Door of Faith facility and graduated from our Journey of Hope long-term recovery program. Today, he is employed full-time in the construction field, rents a home with a friend and has rebuilt his relationship with his two sons. He is active in his church and hosts a Bible study in his home. And recently the Polk County Housing Continuum named John the winner of their Inspiration & Achievement Award!

When we asked John what made Hope Ministries different—how he was finally able to shake his past and move forward as never before—he told us, "Bringing me to Christ was the main thing . . . turning my life over to the Lord!"

John believes another unique aspect of Hope Ministries—which is vital to our graduates' continued success—is our Fraternity of Hope alumni association, and he currently serves as president. "It keeps us united and in touch with one another. If one of us has problems or second thoughts about using again, we can turn to one of our brothers instead of turning to drugs or alcohol," he says.

Dedicated and faithful friends are another special element of this ministry. Generous financial gifts and heartfelt prayers from our community of supporters help make it possible for John and other men and women to put the past behind and live hope-filled lives today!