A Revived Community Effort to Overcome Life’s Struggles
After several years of hiatus during the pandemic, the Celebrate Recovery program has officially restarted in Clinton County, drawing nearly 40 participants to its first weekly meeting Tuesday evening at Michigantown Christian Church.
The faith-based recovery initiative — which focuses on helping people address “hurts, habits, and hang-ups” of all kinds — welcomed attendees from a range of local support communities, including 180 Recovery, Brianna’s Hope, and We Care Recovery Home. Organizers say the weekly meetings are open to anyone seeking personal or spiritual healing, regardless of background or past challenges.
“We were thrilled to see so many faces from across the community on our first night back,” said Bob Emmendorfer, who is co-leading the program with his wife, Rose Emmendorfer. “This is a place for anyone who needs encouragement and a reminder that they’re not alone in their struggles.”
Rebuilding Momentum After the Pandemic
Celebrate Recovery has deep roots in the region, previously hosted at the First Church of the Nazarene in Frankfort before the COVID-19 shutdown brought operations to a pause. The Emmendorfers said the decision to relaunch at Michigantown Christian Church marks “a fresh start” for the successful program.
Originating in California in 1992, Celebrate Recovery has since expanded worldwide, offering Christ-centered recovery for those dealing with issues ranging from substance abuse to anger, grief, and relationship breakdowns.
The program’s weekly format combines worship, small-group discussion, and peer support designed to help participants confront and manage personal challenges in a structured, faith-driven environment.
Addressing “Hurts, Habits, and Hang-Ups”
Celebrate Recovery defines its mission through what organizers call the “three H’s” — the hurts, habits, and hang-ups that often interfere with emotional and spiritual health. Unlike strictly clinical recovery models, its approach intertwines biblical principles with twelve-step concepts.
“The common denominator for a lot of these struggles is complacency,” Emmendorfer explained. “People drift away from the habits that anchor them — reading the Bible, praying, staying connected — and a little pain or frustration slowly turns into denial or destruction. Celebrate Recovery helps bring people back to that North Star.”
The program emphasizes accountability, community, and personal responsibility, encouraging participants to work through issues at their own pace. According to Emmendorfer, the weekly gatherings aim to restore balance “not just for individuals, but for families and relationships that have been strained or broken.”
Rose Emmendorfer added that the atmosphere is intentionally welcoming and judgment-free: “Everyone who walks through the door comes with something they’re carrying. We want them to know they’re accepted from the very first moment.”
Open Invitation for New Participants
Organizers plan to continue meetings every Tuesday evening at Michigantown Christian Church, located at 108 W. 2nd Street. Each session includes worship, teaching, and time for small-group reflection.
“We’re just getting started, and there’s so much potential. Recovery is not just about addiction — it’s about rediscovering hope, purpose, and healthy living in all areas of life.”
The pastor of Michigantown Christian Church is Karl Kercheval.
The Emmendorfers said their goal is to see the Michigantown gatherings grow into a regional hub where residents from Clinton, Carroll, and Boone counties can find encouragement and lasting change.
“Our doors are open,” Rose Emmendorfer said. “No matter what someone is facing — anger, grief, addiction, or something they can’t even name yet — this is a place where they can start again and know they’re not walking alone.”
The next Celebrate Recovery meeting will take place Tuesday at 6PM at Michigantown Christian Church.
Attendance is free, and all are welcome.
