Faith and Recovery: Fr. Jeff Queen's Mission to Heal Communities
Our church was in a pretty gritty urban neighborhood and we never had any vandalism issues in that church. And so, I think it's because people knew that we were a safe space, that they were welcome there, they were loved there. And that they could find a way forward in their lives.
Imagine growing up in the heart of an opioid crisis and turning that experience into a mission to help others. That's exactly what Fr. Jeff Queen has done. As the head pastor at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Fort Thomas, KY, Fr. Jeff has been a steadfast spiritual leader in the recovery community for years. His journey began in South County Ohio, one of the early epicenters of the opioid epidemic, where he witnessed firsthand the devastation addiction can cause.
In this episode of 'Stigmatized', Fr. Jeff opens up about his personal and professional experiences with addiction and recovery, offering a unique perspective on the role of faith and community in healing. Fr. Jeff believes that churches can be sanctuaries for those battling addiction and mental health issues. He draws on his Quaker background to emphasize the importance of fostering relationships and creating safe spaces within church communities. Through his work at St.
Andrew’s, he has seen how offering a place of solace and support can make a significant difference in people's lives. 'Our church was in a pretty gritty urban neighborhood and we never had any vandalism issues in that church', he shares, highlighting the trust and respect they’ve built within the community. This episode is a heartfelt conversation that underscores the power of compassion, community involvement, and faith in addressing addiction and stigma. Fr.
Jeff's insights offer hope and practical advice for anyone affected by addiction, whether directly or through a loved one. If you're looking for a story of resilience and community spirit, this episode is a must-listen.