Clay County Sober Living: Winner of the 2024 ROCK Church Ministry of the Year Award!
Call Clay County Sober Living: 931-933-5374
Repeat offenses, Homlessness, and the overall Recidivism Rate has been greatly reduced within the community, directly because of Clay County Sober Living."
Fun Fact
Clay County Sober Living.... Restoration Through Jesus
Mission Statement
At Clay County Sober Living, our mission is to restore men through a Christ-centered, Orthodox discipleship model that replaces addiction, chaos, and lawlessness with prayer, structure, and spiritual authority. We are not a rehab, halfway house, or state-funded program—we are a 12-month, Church-governed recovery ministry committed to helping men crucify the old life and rise again in Christ through ascetic living, daily labor, and theological formation.
We believe true recovery is found not in treatment, but in transformation. By creating an environment rooted in sacred order, submission, and the power of Jesus Christ, we have seen lasting deliverance and measurable impact in our community—including a sharp decline in recidivism and the honor of receiving the Key to the City. Our mission is simple: to rebuild men, restore families, and revive communities—one soul at a time.
How it works
Court Ordered Students
Court Ordered Students
Court Ordered Students
Clay County Sober Living is a proven alternative sentencing facility for men who have been granted the opportunity to serve a 12-month residential discipleship program in place of traditional jail or prison time. This opportunity is a legal privilege, not a right, and comes with strict expectations of spiritual submission and daily discipline.
Our staff are not law enforcement officers, attorneys, or legal representatives. While they may appear in court alongside the student, they do not offer legal counsel nor possess any legal authority in sentencing decisions. CCSL staff operate in cooperation with public defenders, probation officers, prosecutors, and judges, but do not influence the outcome of any plea agreements or legal negotiations.
Through prior agreement with the court, a judge may sentence a man to complete our 12-month program in lieu of incarceration. This does not nullify his charges. All criminal charges and probation conditions remain active during his time at CCSL. In some cases, a plea agreement may be negotiated between the defense and prosecution that allows for charges or violations to be dismissed upon successful completion of the program. CCSL plays no role in these negotiations.
Once accepted into the program, CCSL’s only obligation is to maintain custody of the student within the facility under the terms of the plea. In exchange, the student must fully submit to the rules, structure, and expectations outlined in our handbook. Failure to comply will result in immediate removal from the program and return to jail, with no credit granted for time served at CCSL.
Additionally, any criminal act committed while enrolled—including possession of drugs, acts of violence, theft, or other offenses—will result in new charges filed against the individual, along with violation of the original sentencing agreement. Law enforcement will be notified immediately, without exception.
Clay County Sober Living is a spiritual covenant between the Church, the courts, and the individual. It is not an escape from accountability—it is a final chance at redemption through Christ.
Walk In Students
Court Ordered Students
Court Ordered Students
Clay County Sober Living accepts a limited number of voluntary, non-court-ordered men, referred to as walk-ins. These men enter the program by personal choice, often seeking deliverance from addiction, homelessness, or a spiritually broken lifestyle. While not under court mandate, walk-in students are subject to the exact same rules, structure, and discipline as court-ordered participants.
There are no shortcuts, exceptions, or reduced time for walk-ins. All students must complete the full 12-month program, including daily spiritual practices, assigned work duties, participation in worship, and strict obedience to the Church's authority.
Walk-in applicants must submit to a thorough intake process, including:
- An interview and background screening
- Review and agreement to all program rules
- Surrender of any personal items not permitted under the rulebook
- Willingness to accept full pastoral and structural authority over their life for the duration of their stay
Walk-in students who violate the structure or rebel against the program’s order will be dismissed, and if applicable, reported to probation or other referring agencies.
This is not a shelter. It is not a drop-in program.
It is a covenant of transformation—and once entered, must be respected.
Walk-in students are expected to hold the same standard as court ordered students once accepted.
Program Length
Court Ordered Students
Student Visitation
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Clay County Sober Living is a 12-month minimum residential discipleship program governed by the authority of the Church and structured in agreement with the judicial system. While the court may mandate a shorter alternative sentence, no student will graduate from CCSL without completing at least one full year—regardless of the court’s order. Enrollment into the program constitutes full agreement to this requirement.
No successful completion letter, certificate, or court verification will be issued for any student who serves less than 12 months. Time may be extended beyond one year if a student commits major infractions or fails to comply with program expectations. CCSL reserves the right to hold students beyond 12 months in the case of disciplinary actions or unresolved obligations.
Leaving the program early is considered a violation of court orders, and a warrant for arrest will be issued immediately upon departure. Additionally, any family member or outside party who assists a student in leaving prematurely may be subject to criminal charges if the court deems it necessary.
Upon enrollment, family members must agree not to interfere with the student’s program duration, nor entertain any request to remove the student before completion. Support from family is encouraged—but only when it aligns with the student’s obedience, submission, and endurance in the program.
Completion is not just a goal—it is a requirement.
Without it, there is no legal satisfaction, no spiritual restoration, and no graduation.
The path is narrow, but it leads to life.
Student Visitation
Student Visitation
Clay County Sober Living maintains strict and non-negotiable policies regarding visitations, mail, and telephone privileges. These policies are in place to protect the sanctity of the program, enforce accountability, and uphold the sacred structure of spiritual recovery.
General Visitation Guidelines:
- Each student is permitted one weekly visitation lasting one hour.
- All visits must take place in the designated visitation area of the CCSL property. No off-site visits or travel with visitors is permitted.
- Only individuals approved at the time of intake may visit. The visitation list is permanent and cannot be changed.
- No visits are allowed at work sites, fundraising events, or any location other than the approved visitation zone.
- Visitors must check in upon arrival and remain in public, designated areas throughout their visit.
Conduct and Dress Code:
- All visitors must be modestly dressed and appropriately covered in accordance with biblical standards of reverence.
- Pets and animals are strictly prohibited on CCSL property.
- Visitors are expected to maintain appropriate boundaries with students and other families. Mixing between unrelated guests and students is not permitted.
- Students may only interact with their own family members or approved guests. Visiting with others' families or guests is strictly prohibited.
Special Rules and Restrictions:
- If the student is married, a legal marriage certificate must be presented to receive spousal visits. Common-law marriages are not recognized.
- No physical contact is allowed with minors unless they are direct family members. Any inappropriate interaction—such as hugging, touching, or playful physical contact—with minors not related to the student is grounds for immediate dismissal.
- All minors must be accompanied by an adult and may not wander or be left unattended during visitation.
Staff Limitations
Clay County Sober Living operates solely as a ministry of the R.O.C.K. Church of Livingston.
It is not a rehabilitation center, medical facility, or state-accredited treatment program.
Our staff do not function as medical professionals, therapists, or licensed counselors.
We are ministers and overseers of a strict, Bible-based discipleship program.
Medical Needs
Our staff will not provide, recommend, or supervise any form of medical care. In the event of a true emergency, 911 will be contacted immediately. Any ongoing medical issues must be addressed outside the program, and only with prior approval and proper documentation.
Mental Health & Counseling
Clay County Sober Living does not offer clinical mental health treatment. We do not diagnose, prescribe, or provide psychiatric services. All guidance is offered through biblical pastoral counseling as practiced by the Church throughout the ages—rooted in Scripture, prayer, confession, and spiritual discernment.
Program Structure is Non-Negotiable
This program is not open for personal customization. The structure has been established by Church authority under apostolic covering, and it will not be modified, debated, or tailored to fit individual desires. Refusal to follow the program as written is grounds for dismissal.
Staff are trained not to argue, reason, or negotiate with students regarding rules, restrictions, or policies. Any attempt by a student to engage in debate or challenge the authority of the staff or program will be viewed as rebellion and may result in immediate dismissal.
We cannot help anyone who will not submit.
This ministry only works for those who are willing to be broken, rebuilt, and led by the Church into a new life through Christ.
If you resist that process, we cannot assist you.
Student Expectations
By entering Clay County Sober Living, you are submitting yourself to a 12-month spiritual discipleship program founded on biblical order, structured labor, and total personal accountability.
This program is not a free ride, a shortcut, or an escape from consequences. It is a covenant of repentance, discipline, and transformation.
Employment is not optional—it is mandatory.
Every student is required to maintain full-time employment as a condition of their continued residency. Stable work is provided in partnership with one of our approved corporations, and employment begins promptly upon entry into the program or release from incarceration.
These are real jobs—not chores—with opportunities for advancement and long-term placement after graduation. All wages, benefits, insurance, and retirement programs (such as 401k) are handled by the employer, not by CCSL.
Worship is the foundation of your recovery.
All students must attend six weekly church services without exception. Services are not optional. They are designed to confront the root of destruction—self-will, rebellion, and spiritual blindness—and to replace it with godly order, healing, and biblical authority.
You are expected to come to church fully dressed, alert, attentive, and ready to receive correction and instruction.
Finances are part of your discipleship.
You will be held accountable for court fines, probation fees, license reinstatement, child support, and other debts you have incurred. Financial stewardship is not negotiable. No student will graduate the program without demonstrating consistent and documented progress toward paying all outstanding obligations.
At CCSL, we do not promise ease—we promise order.
We do not shield you from consequences—we train you to face them.
We do not offer therapy—we offer truth, work, prayer, and the cross.
You will learn to take responsibility for your actions.
You will learn to rebuild what sin destroyed.
You will learn to overcome through Jesus Christ.
Program Levels & Advancement
Program Levels & Advancement
Program Levels & Advancement
Level One: Entry Phase (Months 1–3)
- Observation and Detox Phase
- Full restriction from passes, phone calls, or outside privileges
- Daily orientation in rules, spiritual routine, and employment expectations
- Required to wear program uniform and follow strict accountability
- All communication is monitored
- Focus: Breaking rebellion, establis
Level One: Entry Phase (Months 1–3)
- Observation and Detox Phase
- Full restriction from passes, phone calls, or outside privileges
- Daily orientation in rules, spiritual routine, and employment expectations
- Required to wear program uniform and follow strict accountability
- All communication is monitored
- Focus: Breaking rebellion, establishing humility
Level Two: Discipleship Phase (Months 4–6)
- Limited phone calls and supervised visits reinstated
- Privileges may be earned such as structured passes or additional devotional opportunities
- Employment performance reviewed for consistency and responsibility
- Financial accountability begins (proof of payment toward fines, tithes, support)
- Must demonstrate church engagement and spiritual responsiveness
- Focus: Building consistency, financial stewardship, deeper worship
Level Three: Leadership Phase (Months 7–9)
- May begin mentoring newer students under staff guidance
- Eligible to lead prayer or devotional assignments
- Greater access to independent budgeting and employment progression
- Consistent church attendance and behavior without infraction is mandatory
- Must show growth in repentance, confession, and spiritual authority
- Focus: Living by example, stability under pressure
Level Four: Graduation Phase (Months 10–12+)
- Preparation for life outside the program begins
- Must maintain flawless record of behavior, work, and worship
- Final review includes: financial ledger, work history, disciplinary record, and spiritual readiness
- Graduation interview with pastoral staff
- Final evaluation for certificate and endorsement
- Focus: Maintaining deliverance, embracing long-term calling
Important Note:
Time served does not guarantee advancement.
Levels may be delayed or repeated if:
- A student receives discipline or point violations
- A student fails to show financial or spiritual maturity
- A student resists correction, loses employment, or shows signs of rebellion
Financial Requirements
Program Levels & Advancement
Program Levels & Advancement
Clay County Sober Living is a self-sustained, faith-based ministry operated under the R.O.C.K. Church of Livingston.
We are not a rehab, not a halfway house, and not funded by the state or any government agency.
Everything we provide—housing, transportation, spiritual covering, structure, and oversight—is made possible through the volunt
Clay County Sober Living is a self-sustained, faith-based ministry operated under the R.O.C.K. Church of Livingston.
We are not a rehab, not a halfway house, and not funded by the state or any government agency.
Everything we provide—housing, transportation, spiritual covering, structure, and oversight—is made possible through the voluntary financial stewardship of our students.
We teach men to work, give, save, and submit their finances to godly order.
Voluntary Submission of Wages
As part of their spiritual discipline and participation in the program, each student willfully submits their entire paycheck as a donation to the ministry. In return, the ministry provides for all living expenses—housing, food, transportation, and utilities—and returns a set weekly allowance to the student based on his level of progress in the program.
This structure trains students in financial humility, delayed gratification, and personal discipline, while preparing them for independent living after graduation.
Level-Based Weekly Allowances
Level 1 (Months 1–3)
- Student receives $50/week
- Focus: Breaking pride, learning submission, establishing order
Level 2 (Months 4–6)
- Student receives $100/week
- Focus: Budgeting essentials, paying fines, managing basic needs
Level 3 (Months 7–9)
- Student receives $150/week
- Focus: Increased responsibility, larger savings, preparing for independence
Level 4 (Months 10–12+)
- Student receives $175/week
- Focus: Final phase of financial training before graduation
Graduation
Upon graduation, the student retains 100% of his paycheck and continues working for the same employer if desired.
He leaves the program with:
- A stable job
- Financial discipline
- Debts paid down
- Savings in place
- A renewed understanding of money as a tool for responsibility, not destruction
This is not about taking money—it’s about teaching men to master it.
Poverty ends when stewardship begins.
Addiction breaks when order is enforced.
Graduation Requirements
Program Levels & Advancement
Graduation Requirements
1. Twelve Full Months of Residency
- No student will graduate early—under any circumstance.
- The standard program length is one full calendar year, and this requirement stands regardless of outside court mandates, personal opinion, or early completion requests.
- Any time missed due to medical leave, suspension, violations, or absconding may
1. Twelve Full Months of Residency
- No student will graduate early—under any circumstance.
- The standard program length is one full calendar year, and this requirement stands regardless of outside court mandates, personal opinion, or early completion requests.
- Any time missed due to medical leave, suspension, violations, or absconding may result in additional time being added to the student’s stay.
- Time in this program is not just time served—it is time redeemed.
2. Full Submission to Structure
- Attendance at all six weekly church services is mandatory.
- Active involvement in structured Bible studies, daily prayer, and communal worship is expected.
- The student must live in total compliance with all CCSL rules, showing respect to leadership, avoiding repeated infractions, and remaining under correction when required.
- The structure is not to be challenged—it is to be obeyed.
3. Successful Employment History
- Student must maintain consistent full-time employment throughout the program, without repeated job loss or misconduct.
- Student must make documented progress on all financial obligations, including court costs, probation fees, child support, and driver's license restoration.
- A verifiable history of budgeting, saving, and tithing must be on record before release.
- This program teaches men to earn with integrity and give with discipline.
4. Spiritual Progress & Personal Growth
- Student must show a clear understanding of biblical principles, not just by word but by lifestyle.
- Humility, repentance, obedience, and a teachable spirit are non-negotiable.
- The fruit of transformation is seen in the student's speech, behavior, discipline, and ability to live under spiritual authority.
- A man who cannot submit to Church leadership is not ready to lead a home or re-enter society.
5. No Unresolved Infractions
- Any student with active discipline cases, unresolved absences, or rebellious conduct will be held back from graduation.
- A student who is dismissed from the program before completion, for any reason, will be returned to jail and will not receive any credit or certificate.
- Graduation is earned through completion, not participation.
Graduation is a Holy Milestone
It does not merely mark the end of a sentence, but the beginning of a sanctified life.
It signifies that a man has been tried, corrected, and refined through the fire of submission, worship, and hard work.
At Clay County Sober Living, we don’t release people—we send them out as sons of the Church, workers of the Gospel, and witnesses of Christ’s delivering power.
A Day in the Life of a Sober Living Student
Life at Clay County Sober Living (CCSL) is structured with purpose and discipline. Each day is designed to break cycles of chaos and re-establish a rhythm of godly order, labor, and spiritual renewal. From the moment a man wakes up to the time he lays down at night, everything is intentional—nothing is wasted.
Morning Devotion & Work Assignment
The day begins with morning devotion, a quiet time of Scripture reading, prayer, and reflection as a house. Men are encouraged to recite the Jesus Prayer, meditate on the Psalms, and submit their hearts to God before entering the workday.
Following devotion, students are transported by CCSL staff to their assigned place of employment, which is part of their Level-Based Financial Stewardship. These jobs are contracted through businesses partnered with CCSL and serve as a key component of each student’s transformation.
Return Home, Showers, and Structured Evening
After the workday, students are brought back to the facility. Dinner is always prepared and waiting, and showers are available immediately after returning.
On non-church days, students will attend:
- IOP classes hosted by the Anti-Drug Coalition, if court-ordered or deemed necessary,
- or Bible studies and workshops led by CCSL’s certified staff,
- or studies taught by a Level 3 or Level 4 student demonstrating leadership and spiritual maturity.
Those in Level 2 and above who are housed in upper-level apartments will hold a private Bible study and discussion with their roommates, fostering brotherhood, accountability, and spiritual growth.
Evening Church Services
On church days (Wednesdays and Saturdays), students eat dinner and then attend mandatory services at R.O.C.K. Church of Livingston. These services are central to the program and reinforce the message of submission, renewal, and the Kingdom of God.
Confession and Eucharist (Holy Communion)
On Wednesday nights, students are invited to participate in Orthodox-style Confession and Eucharist:
- Confession is a sacred time where students may privately meet with the Pastor or approved minister to discuss personal struggles, seek counsel, and walk in the light of repentance. This is not psychological therapy—it is pastoral care rooted in Scripture, aimed at spiritual healing and accountability.
- Eucharist (Holy Communion) is offered as a symbolic remembrance of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is voluntary, but students must approach it in repentance, reverence, and sincerity. Communion is a weekly reset, drawing students back to the Cross and into union with Christ.
Community Service & Charity Work
On some days, students will be invited to participate in community outreach and charitable projects. These may include:
- Mowing lawns for widows and the elderly
- Repairing church buildings and porches
- Assisting with food drives and homeless ministry events
Participation in these activities is not only expected—it is a privilege. It teaches men to give back, work with their hands, and embrace servanthood.
Visitation Days
On approved visitation days, students meet family or approved guests in the designated lobby area. After visitation concludes, students return to their scheduled activities without disruption to the routine.
Lights Out
At 9:00 PM, lights are turned off across the facility. An audio Bible plays softly through the speaker system, creating a peaceful end to the day. This nightly discipline ensures the last voice heard is the Word of God, planting Scripture into the heart as the man rests.
This is not just a recovery program.
This is formation.
A place where broken men are rebuilt—through work, worship, and the Word.