Jase Robertson Headlines Recovery-Focused Gathering

‘Beyond the Blind’ Brings 1,000 to Smithfield for Faith-Based Recovery Rally

SMITHFIELD — About 1,000 people filled the auditorium at Johnston Community College on Feb. 19 for “Beyond the Blind,” a faith-centered event focused on addiction recovery, workforce reintegration and community restoration.

Hosted by Hope Center Ministries, a Christian recovery housing nonprofit, the gathering drew church congregations, business leaders, elected officials and families from across eastern North Carolina.

The keynote speaker, Jase Robertson, known nationally for his role on the television series Duck Dynasty, delivered a message centered on redemption, perseverance and faith as a pathway to personal transformation.

The evening opened with a prerecorded address from Gov. Josh Stein, who placed the gathering within the context of North Carolina’s broader response to the opioid epidemic. The state is projected to receive approximately $1.5 billion over 18 years through national opioid settlement agreements with pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors, funds designated for treatment, recovery services, prevention programs and community resilience initiatives.

Stein also highlighted the advocacy work of first lady Anna Stein, who has promoted mental health awareness and support resources for families affected by substance use disorder.

Organizers described the event as more than a worship service, calling it a demonstration of how faith-based organizations can collaborate with employers, civic leaders and public agencies to support recovery and economic stability.

Hope Center Ministries leaders outlined the organization’s expanding presence in the region. The ministry operates residential recovery homes in Wayne and Harnett counties and a women’s recovery center in Johnston County. Plans are underway for a new men’s facility in Selma’s Eastfield development, designed to combine structured recovery housing with employment pathways and life-skills training.

“These homes represent more than housing,” speakers emphasized throughout the evening. “They provide structure, spiritual support and a pathway to restored lives and meaningful employment.”

Robertson echoed that theme in his remarks, encouraging attendees to look beyond present hardships and invest in restoring individuals and families affected by addiction.

The program included video testimonies from recovery participants and ministry partners who described the role churches and volunteers play in mentorship, transportation assistance, job placement and spiritual guidance.

Mark Hall, vice president of partner relationships for Hope Center Ministries, said the strong turnout reflected a shared sense of responsibility.

“Recovery is not a journey meant to be walked alone,” Hall said. “When churches, businesses and community leaders come together, we create pathways to restoration, dignity and purpose for men and women seeking a new beginning.”

Local pastors and civic leaders described faith communities as a critical support network, particularly in rural areas where access to services can be limited. According to the 2020 U.S. Religion Census, about 39 percent of Johnston County residents are affiliated with religious congregations, making churches one of the largest community networks in the area.

For many in attendance, the evening emphasized unity as much as recovery. Families lingered after the program, greeting neighbors, embracing ministry graduates and exchanging contact information with volunteers and employers — connections organizers say are essential to long-term restoration.

Hope Center Ministries officials said they plan to continue expanding recovery housing and workforce development initiatives as partnerships grow across the state and beyond.