Faith and Recovery: Scott and Teresa McBean's Revolutionary Approach
I suppose it can't be underestimated- the importance of just giving voice to your doubts and your uncertainties and the things that are unclear to you.
Imagine a place where faith and recovery walk hand in hand, breaking away from traditional methods. That’s exactly what Scott and Teresa McBean, co-pastors of North Star Community Church in Richmond, Virginia, have created. In this episode of the Positive Sobriety Podcast, hosts Nate Larkin and David Hampton dive into the McBeans' innovative approach to supporting individuals on their recovery journey. Unlike many churches, North Star doesn’t rely on conventional evangelical models.
Instead, they’ve fostered a community where motivational interviewing plays a central role. This technique empowers individuals to lead their own recovery, helping them clarify their life choices without feeling shamed into change. Scott McBean puts it best when he says it 'helps people get clarity on how they're living and how that might be different from how they want to be living'. The McBeans are also keenly aware of the power dynamics often present in traditional structures.
They’ve worked hard to eliminate these hierarchies, believing that every voice matters in the recovery process. Their church services feel more like open dialogues, encouraging attendees to ask questions and share their thoughts freely. Of course, this approach isn’t without its challenges. Changing deeply ingrained paradigms and confronting sacred cows within the church can be met with resistance. But for the McBeans, the rewards far outweigh the risks.
They’re committed to being a safe haven for those in recovery, offering support and community in equal measure. This conversation is not just inspiring but also thought-provoking, pushing listeners to reconsider conventional recovery methods. If you’re curious about how faith can be seamlessly integrated into the recovery process, this episode is a must-listen.