by Bill H

For many of us involved in 12-step recovery programs, protecting our anonymity is crucial for several reasons. The most obvious is the stigma surrounding addiction; many people do not understand its nature and may judge those trying to overcome their struggles.

However, anonymity also safeguards our privacy. It goes deeper than this, as Alcoholics Anonymous states that “anonymity is the spiritual foundation of our program.”

This principle ensures that the teachings of recovery take precedence over the personalities delivering them. In line with this, my picture does not accompany this reflection, and only my first name and last initial appear in the byline.

I am writing this column to share about a monthly event in the Diocese of Brooklyn that I have attended for 15 years: Serenity Sunday. This gathering began at the Parish of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Williamsburg and moved to Transfiguration-St. Stanislaus Kostka in Maspeth in 2017.

Each month, Mass is celebrated on the first Sunday at 4:30 PM, specifically for people in recovery. Participants from all 12-step fellowships and those supporting them are warmly invited.

Our community includes members from Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous, Overeaters Anonymous, and Al-Anon, as well as individuals from many other fellowships that provide support for those facing addiction and their allies.

After Mass, we gather in the lower hall at Transfiguration for a potluck supper, followed by a 12-step meeting, creating a meaningful evening of reflection and recovery.

The second of the 12 steps in AA speaks to believing in a “power greater than ourselves who could restore us to sanity.” For me, that power has always been Jesus Christ.

I believe it was through His protection that I survived the consequences of my alcoholism and eventually found a new way of living in alignment with His plan.

Our meetings attract individuals from various faith backgrounds, as well as those who identify as agnostic or atheist.

It is important to note that specific religions and their practices are considered “outside issues” and are not discussed during meetings, regardless of differing opinions. This creates a welcoming environment focused solely on recovery and support.

Because of the risk of alienating or offending someone, we refrain from discussing specific religions and their practices at meetings. This approach ensures we stay focused on the primary purpose of our gatherings: “staying sober and helping another alcoholic achieve sobriety.”

Serenity Sunday provides me with the opportunity to celebrate both my faith and my sobriety with others who share similar beliefs. It allows me to acknowledge my Higher Power, receive Him in holy Communion, listen to His word, and speak His name.

In my daily life, I identify as both an “alcoholic” and a “Christian,” and Serenity Sunday helps me express and strengthen both identities.

This program has become incredibly meaningful to me, and I want to extend an invitation to anyone interested in joining us.

There are no obligations, though contributions for the potluck table are always appreciated. Just a heads-up: parking in Maspeth can be challenging, so be sure to leave yourself enough time.

“Bill H” is a member of the Serenity Sunday Program at Transfiguration-St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish.