ABOUT MEETINGS
In meetings, we encounter the healing and freedom that can only come through fellowship with others. If you aren’t already attending a CIR meeting, we strongly encourage you to start attending one today. That’s because it’s extremely difficult to find lasting recovery and strengthen your relationship with Christ in isolation. Christ Himself tells us that where two or more are gathered, there He is in their midst.
But we know it can be hard to attend your first CIR meeting. We know the shame, fear, resentment, and lack of hope that you might be experiencing because we’ve been there ourselves.
You might have questions.
What if I feel like I don’t belong?
What if I see someone I know?
What if I don’t really need meetings?
These questions—and many like them—are common. But again and again those who attend in-person and virtual meetings experience a community of hope and strength.
“God’s grace is just so present when I’m in a Catholic in Recovery meeting and there is such love there. We’re able to express love and I get the beauty of God’s grace in action.”
“I would say this to those thinking about joining a Catholic in Recovery group: come and see! You don’t have to stay or even talk if you come to one. People at CIR often do share at a very deep level because they feel safe in being able to talk openly about Jesus. So, ‘come and see’ what a Catholic in Recovery group can offer you in your own journey toward recovery and healing.”
WHAT HAPPENS IN A MEETING?
Prayer: We begin every meeting in prayer, asking for God’s grace and presence with a spirit of humility and trust.
Introductions: Meeting members briefly introduce themselves.
Announcements: The meeting secretary shares any relevant announcements about CIR or the specific meeting group.
Sunday Reflection: We read through the upcoming Sunday Mass reflection, which ties together Scripture and recovery principles. Each person can read a paragraph or two before passing to the next person. You’re always welcome to pass on reading.
Sharing: There is time for everyone to share based on the Sunday reflection and personal experiences related to recovery and faith. As a newcomer, it’s perfectly okay to say “pass” and simply listen to others share their experience, strength, and hope.
Post-Meeting Fellowship: Afterward, members may approach newcomers to offer support, share their phone numbers, or invite them to grab coffee. This is where you can get to know others and find a sponsor.
Get answers to your questions by watching the below webinar featuring a panel of Catholic in Recovery community members sharing why it’s so valuable to attend meetings, what to expect, how to find a home group, how to best experience the fruit of 12-step recovery meetings, and much more.
When we walk this journey of recovery alongside others, we borrow others’ hope until we’re able to claim hope as our own. In CIR meetings, you can find a safe, nonjudgmental, and faith-aligned community with those who understand your struggle and share your faith in Christ.
Whether you’re looking for a General Recovery group or something specific—such as recovery from alcoholism, drug addiction, disordered eating, lust, or the family spiritual disease of addiction—there is a place for you at CIR.