12-step recovery began under the original mission of Alcoholics Anonymous. In its early days, AA focused on helping alcoholics and only alcoholics recover. Early meetings were commonly limited to those who accepted they had a problem with alcohol and desired to stop drinking. It was not terribly unlike the early church when the Gospel was largely only preached in the synagogues to believing Jews.

It took persecution and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to help Christians begin to proclaim the Gospel to all people. Similarly, after becoming more aware of the struggles of others with weaknesses, such as family members of alcoholics and drug addicts, AA began to extend the healing of 12-step recovery to more and more people. Thankfully, AA now freely shares its wisdom with any who asks. Since AA’s founding almost 90 years ago, 12-step programs have blossomed to help bring healing to those suffering from all kinds of addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments.

Reflection Questions

• Have you shared your experience, strength, and hope with others in need of recovery regardless of their addiction, compulsion, or unhealthy attachment?
• In what ways can you draw from your own experience of recovery to help others find healing through 12-step recovery?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Acts 11:19-26
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 87:1b-3, 4-5, 6-7
Gospel: John 10:22-30

Reflection by Kevin S.