Keeping the Cross Central: The Faith-Based Legacy of Teen Challenge

Teen Challenge, also known as Adult and Teen Challenge, was established over sixty years ago as an evangelistic outreach to drug addicts in Brooklyn, New York. This faith-based rehabilitation program was created to share the gospel's life-changing message that God can redeem the whole person beginning on day one of the program. This unique approach has produced success rates of over 70% for those who complete the rehabilitation program. However, as Teen Challenge has grown worldwide, with over 1,400 centers in 129 countries, some centers are now turning to secular methods in order to access government funding. As cofounder of Teen Challenge, Don Wilkerson raises a warning flag on this mission drift. The power of the cross, which brings about a changed life, must be the priority in treating drug addiction. If the cross is not central to the mission of any Teen Challenge center, then it is not worthy of using the name "Teen Challenge." Becoming drug-free is only part of the new life Jesus offers to those who complete any Adult and Teen Challenge program. The ministry must never lose its focus in bringing men and women to Christ-through the power of the gospel and Christian discipleship. This book offers a path forward to stay faithful to the original mission of Teen Challenge in keeping the cross central. Pastor Don is fighting for the vision he and his brother David Wilkerson had for Teen Challenge over 60 years ago, not to be a rehab but to be a church for the least and the lost of society. I stand with him in his effort to preserve the gospel integrity of this ministry. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves and supports Teen Challenge or is involved in Christian ministry of any kind. - Joshua West, Pastor of Sonrise Adult & Teen Challenge