Gordon Street Christian Church: A Hub of Hope and Recovery

By Cameron Cunningham, M.Div., NBA Mental Health & Wellness Program Coordinator

Gordon Street Christian Church has been a cornerstone of Kinston, North Carolina, since 1843. Known as the first church in the state intentionally founded to be a Disciples of Christ congregation, Gordon Street has remained deeply rooted in its community, making a deliberate choice to stay in the heart of the city even as many congregations moved to the suburbs. This steadfast commitment reflects the church’s core values of service, relevance, and strong congregational leadership.

In present, the church’s mission continues through its transformative recovery ministry, a program designed to support individuals struggling with addiction, substance use disorder and related challenges. The recovery center housed at Gordon Street operates as a partnership between faith leaders, congregates, community organizations, and the legal system, creating a holistic approach to recovery. Former Judge Beth Heath, a key architect of the program, explains that success requires more than just treatment; it requires what experts call “recovery capital,” including housing, transportation, job skills, parenting support, mental health resources, and community connection. By consolidating these resources in one accessible place, Gordon Street removes barriers that too often keep people from rebuilding their lives.

The church’s location, part of what locals once called the “Magic Mile,” places participants within walking distance of courts, social services, and health providers, transforming the building into a vibrant hub for healing. Previously underused spaces including educational rooms, fellowship halls, and kitchens have been repurposed into vital areas for recovery programming.

At the heart of the ministry are personal stories of transformation. Rev. Dr. Laura Wood, senior minister at Gordon Street, recalls supporting men and women struggling with alcohol addictions to obtain healing. “Helping one person helps the whole family,” she says, highlighting the ministry’s emphasis on consistent, compassionate support. The recovery program also fosters growth within the church. Families and children are engaging in programs not through proselytizing, but because Gordon Street has become a safe and welcoming space for all. The church’s ministry demonstrates that recovery work doesn’t just change lives it strengthens communities.