THE ADDICTION RECOVERY PROGRAM UPDATE

There has been an ARP website created for your use. The link is under Addiction Recovery Links. The username is arp and the password is update. Check it often for updated information.

There has been a link (“Locate an ARP Group”) added on the ARP Web site connected to http://www.providentliving.org/ where the times and locations of all ARP groups are listed. No other Web sites are authorized for use in conjunction with ARP.

KEY CONCEPTS ON REPENTANCE AND ADDICTION RECOVERY FROM PREACH MY GOSPEL

ARP leaders are encouraged to review the section entitled “Repentance and Addiction Recovery”
found on pages 187 through 190 of Preach My Gospel. The principles taught apply not only to investigators and new converts but also to Church members of many years. The following
are just a few of the key concepts: 1) “Through baptism and confirmation people receive
the gift of the Holy Ghost, which will strengthen their ability to overcome these challenges. But baptism and confirmation may not fully do away with the emotional and physical urges that go along with these addictive behaviors” (pg. 188; italics added). 2) Repentance may involve an emotional and physical process” (pg. 187; italics added). 3) Thus, both repentance
and recovery may take time. Sometimes converts, even with the best of intentions, give in to temptation as they progress toward greater self-discipline” (pg. 187; italics added). 4) “Even
though a person may have some initial success, further emotional healing may be necessary to completely repent and recover” (pg. 188; italics added). 5) “Since it is likely that some may return to an addiction, priesthood leaders and members should not be shocked or discouraged if they learn that an investigator or new member may be struggling with such problems” (pg. 189; italics added). 6) “Encourage them to attend an appropriate support group or obtain professional help. In some places, LDS Family Services is available” (pg. 189; emphasis and italics added).

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

QUESTION (Topic: Dress Standards) What is the appropriate attire for facilitators and missionary group leaders?
ANSWER
During any ARP-related meeting, facilitators should dress in nice modest casual wear or better. Missionary group leaders are to dress like missionaries, i.e., Sunday dress with missionary name tags.

QUESTION (Topic: Budget) Is there a local budget for the program?
ANSWER
There is no budget designated for ARP within the local agency. Local programs are to be self-sustaining. Local agencies choose how to assist with incidental expenses (such as printing) within their existing budget. Participants pay for their own workbook. The workbook (A Guide to Addiction Recovery and Healing) costs $5, unless purchased in large quantities, which then reduces the cost to $3 each. Purchase of the original stock of workbooks is determined locally. Local wards and stakes can choose to assist with incidental expenses or the purchase of workbooks within their existing budgets.

QUESTION (Topic: Training) Is it preferable to have separate correlation and/or training meetings for missionary group leaders and facilitators for those involved in General Focus Support Groups and those involved in Pornography Addiction Support Groups?
ANSWER
It is certainly acceptable to have either combined or separate correlation and/or training meetings for those involved in General Focus Support Groups and those involved in Pornography Addiction Support Groups. A case could be made for either approach.
The number of various groups in each area, geography, and the local needs of the missionary
group leaders and facilitators are the key factors to consider when deciding what is best for your area. The most important element is to create meetings that invite the Spirit and focus on the approved program materials.