Special Screening of the inspiring film “Lost in Woonsocket,” a film that highlights addiction and recovery, Nashville’s Renaissance Hotel, July 29, 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
A screening and discussion on the hour-long film seeks to encourage local churches to become engaged in drug and alcohol ministries
NASHVILLE –The United Methodist Special Program on Substance Abuse and Related Violence (SPSARV) will host an evening screening and Q &A of Lost in Woonsocket, an inspiring film on addiction and recovery on July 29, during the School of Congregational Development conference in Nashville. The screening is open to the public and will be held at Nashville’s downtown Renaissance Hotel from 8:00-10:00 p.m.
Lost in Woonsocket takes viewers on a poignant journey into the lives of two homeless alcoholics, Mark and Normand, who struggle to survive in a backwoods tent in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. After being discovered by a film crew of random philanthropists, the two men are given a chance at recovery, a chance at reconnection, and a second chance at life. The resulting film is a testament to our power as individuals to make a difference in the lives of one another.
The critically-acclaimed film provides a rare glimpse into the internal and external struggles that often serve as obstacles on the road to recovery. Fear and faith, hope and despair, Lost in Woonsocket highlights the emotional contradictions that accompany attempts at personal reformation.
“We captured a story that inspires hope,” said Director John Chester. “Hope for the addict and for their family and friends who quietly suffer alongside them.”
Following the screening, viewers will engage in a spirited discussion on addiction and recovery and the role of churches in providing a compassionate response to addiction and its adverse effects on individuals, families and communities. Normand Cartier, who was featured in the film, will be at the screening to share his personal journey and answer questions.
“This film is an excellent teaching tool for churches wishing to challenge their understanding of Justice Ministries, Homelessness, and Addiction to Recovery,” said Bishop Peter Weaver, bishop of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church.
Viewers will receive a bible study resource on the film and will gain insight into how to start drug and alcohol ministries in their local congregations through the training programs, events, resources and advocacy offered by SPSARV. SPSARV is hosting the screening in partnership with film California-based nonprofit Lost and Found in America (LAFIA).
“We hope that viewing Lost in Woonsocket will inspire congregations to start their own addiction and recovery ministries,” said Rev. Cynthia Sloan, SPSARV program associate. “The Church continues to a supportive place of healing and hope for individuals and their families who struggle with addictions.”
The film’s tour will kick off on Sept. 1 during National Recovery Month and will stop in over 30 locations across the US in an effort to garner social awareness of addiction and hope for those seeking recovery.
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The United Methodist Special Program on Substance Abuse and Related Violence (SPSARV) equips United Methodists and partners to be informed and compassionate responders to alcohol, other drugs and related violence worldwide. Visit http://www.umspsarv.org/. Lost and Found in America is a nonprofit organization which promotes stories with a positive humanitarian message as powerful tools to inspire individuals to create a better life for themselves and a better world for all of us. Visit http://www.lafia.org/.
NASHVILLE –The United Methodist Special Program on Substance Abuse and Related Violence (SPSARV) will host an evening screening and Q &A of Lost in Woonsocket, an inspiring film on addiction and recovery on July 29, during the School of Congregational Development conference in Nashville. The screening is open to the public and will be held at Nashville’s downtown Renaissance Hotel from 8:00-10:00 p.m.
Lost in Woonsocket takes viewers on a poignant journey into the lives of two homeless alcoholics, Mark and Normand, who struggle to survive in a backwoods tent in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. After being discovered by a film crew of random philanthropists, the two men are given a chance at recovery, a chance at reconnection, and a second chance at life. The resulting film is a testament to our power as individuals to make a difference in the lives of one another.
The critically-acclaimed film provides a rare glimpse into the internal and external struggles that often serve as obstacles on the road to recovery. Fear and faith, hope and despair, Lost in Woonsocket highlights the emotional contradictions that accompany attempts at personal reformation.
“We captured a story that inspires hope,” said Director John Chester. “Hope for the addict and for their family and friends who quietly suffer alongside them.”
Following the screening, viewers will engage in a spirited discussion on addiction and recovery and the role of churches in providing a compassionate response to addiction and its adverse effects on individuals, families and communities. Normand Cartier, who was featured in the film, will be at the screening to share his personal journey and answer questions.
“This film is an excellent teaching tool for churches wishing to challenge their understanding of Justice Ministries, Homelessness, and Addiction to Recovery,” said Bishop Peter Weaver, bishop of the New England Conference of The United Methodist Church.
“We hope that viewing Lost in Woonsocket will inspire congregations to start their own addiction and recovery ministries,” said Rev. Cynthia Sloan, SPSARV program associate. “The Church continues to a supportive place of healing and hope for individuals and their families who struggle with addictions.”
The film’s tour will kick off on Sept. 1 during National Recovery Month and will stop in over 30 locations across the US in an effort to garner social awareness of addiction and hope for those seeking recovery.
_______________________
The United Methodist Special Program on Substance Abuse and Related Violence (SPSARV) equips United Methodists and partners to be informed and compassionate responders to alcohol, other drugs and related violence worldwide. Visit http://www.umspsarv.org/. Lost and Found in America is a nonprofit organization which promotes stories with a positive humanitarian message as powerful tools to inspire individuals to create a better life for themselves and a better world for all of us. Visit http://www.lafia.org/.
