In part one of this series, Mark L. details how the first three Beatitudes can help us in our recovery and spiritual lives “Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.” This Beatitude suggests we must actively pursue God and...
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How to Take a Daily Moral Inventory in Light of the Beatitudes (Part 1)
Mar 6, 2024 | Fifth Step, Fourth Step, Prayer & Scripture Reflections, Reconciliation, Sacraments, Scripture Reflection, Spiritual Tools, The Sacraments, The Twelve Steps | 0 Comments
The first formal Step Four a recovering person makes can be likened to the preparation for a “general Confession” made by a Catholic who has returned to the Church after being away or been received into the Church for the first time. This in-depth and thorough...
Dante and Recovery Part 1: Into the Inferno
Oct 5, 2022 | 12-Step Sponsorship, Fourth Step, Sponsorship/Mentorship | 0 Comments
“I think and judge it best for you to follow me, and I shall guide you, where you shall hear the howls of desperation and see the ancient spirits in their pain… When he advanced, I followed and I entered the steep and savage path...” Inferno (Cantos 2, 3) I was never...
Beyond Forgiveness: The Boundless Mercy of God in the 12 Steps
Apr 20, 2022 | Big Book of AA, Fourth Step, God, Mercy, Ninth Step, Spiritual Tools | 0 Comments
If you are anything like me, I always start off Lent with a plan for prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. In Catholic circles, it becomes almost a required part of the small talk we make. “So, what are you doing for Lent?” It seems to demand an answer that demonstrates...
A Reflection on Attachment, Addiction, Psychology, and Spiritual Formation: Part Five
Nov 3, 2020 | Addiction, Expert Opinion, Fourth Step, Getting Sober, God, Saints—On Earth & in Heaven, Spiritual Tools | 0 Comments
Attachment, as we have seen in previous articles (Part One, Part Two, Part Three, and Part Four), is central to addiction, recovery, and spiritual growth. St. Ignatius of Loyola describes his Spiritual Exercises as “every way of preparing and disposing the soul to rid...