Christ’s love is shown for the person
Openly treat the person as you would all others
Mature sponsors should be selected of the same sex to come alongside the person
Integrate them into appropriate groups and encourage them to become involved fully in CR*
Network with other churches or local community agencies if there are physical needs that need to be met that they are unable to do for themselves
Grace should be shown along with accountability
Be aware that the person has come from an environment of manipulation
Assess their background in CR, utilize their strengths and help them with their weaknesses*
Check with probation/parole officers regarding restrictions or cautions if there are concerns
Keep on loving the person even when they are unlovable

Ten Things Celebrate Recovery Churches Should Not Do

GOOD ADVICE: DON’T
Give personal money, goods or services unless you are equipped to do so
Offer to take them home with you
Openly announce to the CR group that the person is an ex-offender
Deal, bargain or conduct business agreements with ex-offenders
Allow inappropriate behavior to go unchecked
Depend on ex-offenders for leadership until they have been in the program at least 1 year*
Volunteer any known information to others in the church about the inmate’s reason for being in prison/jail
Inquire of the individual about why he/she was in prison/jail
Conduct your own investigation of wrongdoing, contact appropriate authorities
Encourage the inmate to talk against authorities (parole officer, judges, etc.)

*Indicates areas of leadership or possible leadership.