The addiction crisis continues to affect individuals, families, communities, and church members in profound ways. To address this problem, Les McCoy, Florida Conference health ministries and publishing director, and Jennifer Sankey-Battles, Ph.D., R.N., Southeastern Conference health and disability ministries director, hosted a Journey to Wholeness Facilitator Workshop, February 7-8, 2026, designed to train individuals to establish and lead addiction recovery groups. The training marked the first Journey to Wholeness Facilitator Workshop co-hosted by both conferences. This initiative reflects the Church’s ongoing commitment to wholistic health and compassionate community outreach.
The workshop was facilitated by David Sedlacek, Ph.D., and Beverly Sedlacek, D.N.P., representatives from the North American Division. Their presentations were informative, interactive, and inspiring. Approximately 70 participants were in attendance, including pastors, church leaders, and members representing various churches and community organizations, with a large number of participants from Beree Church in Miami, Fla.
Throughout the training, participants engaged in periods of reflection, meaningful discussion, and shared experiences, creating both uplifting and solemn moments. Attendees expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to gain new knowledge and practical skills, equipping them with greater empathy and understanding to support individuals seeking recovery from addiction. One participant shared that the training “provided practical tools and renewed confidence to minister to individuals seeking recovery.”
Many participants indicated plans to launch addiction recovery programs within the next 6 to 12 months. The significant impact of the ministry event highlights the urgent need to continue offering Journey to Wholeness Facilitator Programs, and to establish ongoing addiction recovery programs within the churches and communities. Victor Maddox, D.Min., director of health ministries for the Southern Union Conference, gave closing remarks with a charge for the attendees to use a Christ-centered method to meet the needs of those struggling with addiction.
Churches and ministries interested in spreading the Gospel by helping individuals recovery from addictions are encouraged to schedule the Journey to Wholeness Facilitator training. For more information, visit the North American Division Health Ministries website under “Facilitator Training & Support,” or contact Les McCoy at les.mccoy@floridaconference.com, or Jennifer Sankey- Battles at jennifer.sankey@secsda.org.
Southeastern | May 2026
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