Spiritual Transformation Program

The Spiritual Transformation Programis about changed lives-not just on the outside, but deep inside. The programgives dedicated students the tools they need to overcome addictions and other life-controlling issues.

The 12-to-18 month intensive residential program for men offers counseling, educational opportunities, job and skills training, cultural exposure and work therapy projects. The focus is on renewing hope, restoring family relationships, and returning once-broken men to productive lives. The program can accommodate 50 men at any given time.

Goals are achieved by involving the students in systematic Bible Study, biblical counseling, regular drug testing, and work therapy in and around the Mission. When needed, the men are given literacy instruction and GED preparation. They also have access to a library and computer learning and training center.

Upon graduation from the Spiritual Transformation Program, the men enter a "Transition Period" where they are mentored through a gradual transition back into regular society. During this period, a relationship with a strong local church is required to help deter relapse and ensure the graduate's continued growth and accountability. It is also during this time that the graduates seek employment and residency apart from the Mission.

As a result of this program, previously despairing men transform their lives from dependent addicts to contributing members of society. They learn literacy skills, earn high school equivalency degrees, get job and computer training, trade training, and participate in regular counseling and Bible study. Staff social workers help them find jobs, education and housing. Most importantly, they are reconciled with their families and become active in their communities through their local church.

STP Photo Gallery(example)

"Life-changing" is a term so overused that it may not excite our emotions anymore. However, for the graduates of Central Union Mission's residential rehabilitation program, "life-changing" is even a mild description of the rebirth they experience.

Seventeen graduates received diplomas at the February 2009 graduation ceremony. Top row (left to right): Jonathan Crawford, James Le Blanc, Timothy Paige, Frank Barnwell, and Darlington Gilbert. Bottom row: Cartrail Eaton, Albion Hill, Kevin Wright, William Wilson, Shawn Chinn, Robert Bolden, Riccardo Brown.