Lina Kanakriyeh

More than 50 million US adults consider themselves to be in recovery from either substance abuse or mental health issues that affect their everyday life. Additionally, about 1 in 4 US adults have personally experienced trauma that produces fear or helplessness in their lives. These stats only give us a small glimpse into the reality that we live in a hurting and broken world and people are in desperate need for a way out. The desire to escape this brokenness can lead people to struggle through things like pornography, grief, alcoholism, loss, drugs, apathy, depression, anxiety, self-image, anger, lust, fear of others, abuse, shame, and the list only goes on.

In this world we have an enemy that wants us to believe that our identity is found in what we do, but the gospel tells us that our identity is found in who Jesus is—in his life, death, and resurrection. Recovery Ministry at The Austin Stone exists to help those struggling with their own sin, healing from sin done to them, and those who are navigating the effects of living in a broken world. The goal is to help them find hope and healing in Jesus. Recovery isn’t just for “those” people. It’s for all people—a safe place where it’s okay to not be okay. During our weekly Recovery meetings we spend time together and hear a gospel-centered teaching or a personal story of gospel transformation before breaking off into gender-specific small groups. In these groups, there is space to openly share about sin, suffering, and victories in a safe, confidential environment.

For the next two years I have the exciting opportunity to serve the Austin Stone as a Soul Care Resident. As a part of the Soul Care team, I'll be responsible for personal and ministry development in partnership with Recovery Ministry and Counseling Center at the Austin Stone. I'll get to serve these ministries by leading recovery groups, coordinating volunteers, and helping run meetings administratively. I am so excited to be serving in this role as Recovery and counseling have helped me personally walk more freely in my identity in Christ for the past two years. My hope is that as a result of my ministry, many others will be able to experience the sweet and personal love of God for them as they step into spaces where their brokenness is welcome and they are met with mercy, grace, and compassion from our Savior.