In time for more than a year’s resolution, the Lincoln BaptistAssociation is offering a program for those needing some helpkicking unwanted habits and wanting to begin a new life.

Celebrate Recovery, which began in California 14 years ago, willbegin Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Lincoln Baptist Association worshipcenter at 640 Halbert Heights Road, and will be free and open tothe public.

“It is not church, it’s not just for Baptists,” said MelissaPeden, ministry leader for the area’s Celebrate Recovery program.”We want everybody and anybody that is hurting or needs help intheir life to attend.”

While there are other recovery programs available to the public,Celebrate Recovery is unique in that it is a Christ centeredprogram, which is unlike some other recovery programs that do notallow the recognition of a particular higher power.

“When people come to Celebrate Recovery we’d like to plug themback into an area church, so they can continue their growth withChrist,” said Peden. “You do need Christ in everything.”

Peden, who has participated in a secular recovery program forcodependency, thinks joining a support group can be a major factorin regaining control of one’s life.

“You realize you’re not alone,” said Peden. “The group settingallows you to have support from people you can relate to that knowwhere you’ve been and what you’re going through.”

In addition to providing a network of people in similarsituations, the program also seeks to foster an environmentconducive to healing.

“Life gets nasty and it’s hard to share (problems),” said Peden.”We’re trying to create a safe place where you can talk aboutwhat’s going on in your life.”

Peden also insisted that those interested in participatingshould not shy away from the program because “anonymous,” is not inthe title.

“What happens here, stays here,” said Peden. “We know Brookhavenis a small town.”

When program participants and group leaders meet every Tuesday,they will begin with a short worship service, follow with genderspecific chemical dependency and non-chemical dependency groups andend the night with refreshments and fellowship.

“Every week you’re growing and getting one step closer torecovery,” said Peden. “It’s for all hurts habits andhang-ups.”

Based on the traditional 12 recovery steps, the program alsoincorporates eight principles based on the Beatitudes, with boththe steps and principles being taught by former members of recoveryprograms.

“You’re not going to be preached at, there’s not going to be apastor leading you,” said Peden. “It’s going to be somebody that’slived it.”

Those interested can join the program at any time and cancontact Peden at 601-320-8365 or the Lincoln Baptist Association at601-833-8111 for further information.

“We’re not there to fix you, we’re there to support you,” saidPeden. “Some people just want to be heard; this is a place whereyou can talk about you, your hurts and your feelings.”