Catholic Spirituality for Addictions
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Catholic Spirituality for Addictions
Millions of Americans are addicted to drugs or alcohol, and millions more struggle with an addicted family member or friend. Recovery from addiction and its impact requires professional treatment, but also a supportive community and a deepening relationship with God. St Clare of Assisi Parish is starting two caring ministries to focus on the spiritual part of recovery, and support family and friends of addiction: “Catholic in Recovery” and “iTHIRST Spiritual Companions.” An informational meeting will be held at St Clare, Monday Feb 12th in Conference Room 2 from 7-9 p.m. You are invited to learn more about the current understanding of the disease of addiction and how these ministries can provide hope. Contact [email protected] for more information.
FAQ’s about Catholic in Recovery meetings
Who would benefit from a CIR meeting?
Anyone who struggles with an unhealthy attachment, or loves someone who is struggling. People form unhealthy attachments to all kinds of things. CIR meetings use the 12-step format of Alcoholics Anonymous to help people deal with unhealthy attachments to substances, food, technology, relationships, pornography, and more.
Do I have to tell people why I’m there?
No. People will often introduce themselves by their first name only. When they are comfortable, they will often mention the attachment that brought them there. There is no obligation to share anything, at any time. The culture of support meetings also values anonymity and privacy. These group guidelines are discussed at every meeting.
What can I expect at a meeting?
Meetings start out with group guidelines, and brief introductions. CIR meetings then share a reading from Sunday Mass, and ask participants to discuss what that reading means to them in their recovery journey. Meetings start and end with prayer. There is time to socialize before and after.
How does it help? What’s the point?
In community, the isolation of unhealthy attachments ends. Experience, strength, and hope is shared. The focus begins to shift from burdensome problems to lasting solutions.
“Al-Anon and CIR meetings help me let go of worrying about other people’s choices and focus on myself. When I put those weights down, I have room in my life for hobbies, interests friendships and joy. I need help remembering not to pick those weights back up again.” -Sarah
