A Celebrate Recovery group for adults that is being sponsored by the Dunkirk United Methodist Church, at Sixth Street and Washington Avenue in Dunkirk is meeting Fridays at 6 p.m. There is no charge or commitment required. Everyone is welcome.

Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step program based on Biblical principles and the power of Jesus Christ to heal and make whole people suffering from (bad) Habits, (long-held) Hurts, and (limiting) Hang ups. It has eight guiding principles based on the Beatitudes and unlike other programs that look back at the past or rehash painful memories, this program looks forward at the opportunity for change based on making wise choices, taking responsibility for poor choices made in the past, and a spiritual commitment to Jesus Christ. There is happiness and satisfaction to be found while working in a group of people that understand the challenges participants face.

Celebrate Recovery addresses all types of habits, hurts and hang-ups. It is a large umbrella program that deals with any problem that keeps people from living a happy, healthy life. Groups are divided into men and women. The group has sections for the chemically dependent and for their adult children, for battered women, the sexually abused, unresolved or uncontrolled anger, food addiction, codependent men and women, and many others.

The program began in 1991 and now has over 35,000 groups throughout the United States.

States. We believe that a personal relationship with Christ is the life changing step that will bring recovery and happiness. We invite all who are mired in habits they cannot change on their own to try Celebrate Recovery.

“If you need more information or have questions regarding this opportunity for recovery that we are providing, I can be reached by email or by phone at 585-609-7923,” said Geraldine Rapino, pastor.