Terry Jacobs

Date

5-2016

Department

School of Divinity

Degree

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Chair

David W. Hirschman, Charles N. Davidson

Keywords

Addiction, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Evangelism, Inpatient, Mental Illness

Disciplines

Christianity | Other Religion | Practical Theology | Religion

Abstract

There is a significant sub-culture of mental health patients who are addicted to prescription drugs, whose needs are not being met by the mental health rehabilitation system. These individuals are incapable of functioning or working normally and exist solely on welfare and community charities. This thesis will investigate this nationwide problem to determine existing ministry approaches, to create a reproducible ministry strategy for reaching this segment of our society with the gospel, by implementing Christian growth, and providing God’s hope for recovery from addiction. The writer has experience with such a ministry, including a church ministry home in the community, and will survey former addicts to determine effective practices to employ. The paper will provide the Biblical basis for this ministry, discuss practical considerations for establishing this outreach, and provide suggestions for meeting the practical and spiritual needs of this subculture.

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