The following individual has just become a participant in International Christian Recovery Coalition: Leslie Fanchon Lefebvre-Brown,
International Christian Recovery Coalition Supporter,
Huntington Beach, CA, 92648
Welcome, Dick B., Executive Director
dickb@dickb.com
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
A.A. Origins: The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous
Though the precise date of June 10, 1935 has been the subject of some dispute, there has been no dispute among members of the A.A. Fellowship that Alcoholics Anonymous was founded by Bill W. and Dr. Bob at the Smith Home on 855 Ardmore Avenue in Akron, Ohio in June of 1935. When the cofounders helped a third man (Bill Dotson)to seek God's help and attain recovery, the date was July 4, 1935; and Bill Wilson proclaimed that to be the date of the founding of the first A.A. Group--Akron Number One.
The facts about how A.A. got to the founding point are scarcely known by many AAs because those facts are not covered in the "basic text" of A.A. that Bill Wilson and his partner published four years later in 1939.
For that reason, I thoroughly researched the real origins of Akron A.A., received the endorsement of the children of Dr. Bob and others who were present at that time. The result was the book "The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous" www.dickb.com/Akron.shtml.
For an accurate, thorough, and valuable work on just how Akron A.A. came to be, this book, The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous, is the book you would enjoy reading and studying.
In brief, it covers a number of founding factors which were later elaborated upon in other titles written by me on A.A.'s founding. However, in summary, the factors were these:
1. Russell Firestone, one of the heirs of the famous Firestone Tire & Rubber dynasty, was a seemingly hopeless drunk.
2. Russell's father, Harvey Firestone, Sr., had spent a great deal of time in Florida with his friends Henry Ford and Thomas Alva Edison. While there, he met a brilliant young man named James Draper Newton who had been assisting Edison when visitors came to meet the famed inventor.
3. Firestone, Sr., was so taken with the abilities of Newton that he brought Newton to Akron and was grooming him to become head of the rubber company. And during his time in Akron, Newton became a good friend of Russell Firestone--at first not knowing about Russell's severe problem with alcoholism.
4. Newton was a staunch "member" of the Oxford Group at that time, was a friend of Oxford Group founder Dr. Frank N.D. Buchman, and of the American Oxford Group leader, Rev. Samuel M. Shoemaker, Jr. And Jim Newton arranged to have Russell, Russell's father, and Newton himself travel with Sam Shoemaker on a train trip to an Episcopal Conference in Denver. Meanwhile, Russell was drinking heavily all the while.
5. On the return trip to Akron, Shoemaker took Russell into a train compartment. There he led Russell Firestone to a decision for Jesus Christ. And Russell was healed. I have seen the diaries of Shoemaker and of Newton and they confirm the foregoing details. And, by the time the train arrived in Akron, the family doctor pronounced Russell's recovery a miracle.
6. For two years Russell and Jim Newton traveled together as Oxford Group activists and witnessed in many locations. Finally, in 1933, the Firestone family was so elated with Russell's success in overcoming drinking that they brought Oxford Group founder Dr. Frank Buchman to Akron to celebrate and witness. Buchman and some 30 Oxford Group people took over the Protestant pulpits and other places in Akron. They gave Christian testimonies and were joined by Russell who spoke of his rebirth, his Bible study, and his victory over alcohol. Most of these facts were widely reported in Akron newspapers, whose articles I have personally read.
7. Aware of Dr. Bob's drinking problem and also having problems of her own, Henrietta Seiberling (wife of one of the Seiberling family members, and an Oxford Group enthusiast, Christian, and Bible student)persuaded Dr. Bob's wife, and two other ladies to come and hear the 1933 testimonials. The four ladies were persuaded that God could help Dr. Bob. They also persuaded T. Henry Williams, husband of one of the ladies, to help them form a small Oxford Group, which later moved to the home of T. Henry.
8. And it was at the small meeting at the home of T. Henry and Clarace Williams in Akron that Dr. Bob admitted he was a "secret drinker." When asked if he would like to pray, Dr. Bob said, "Yes." And he and the group knelt on the rug and prayed for his deliverance.
9. There is much much more to the Akron story. And it is covered in The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous. It details the contributions of Dr. Bob, Henrietta Seiberling, Dr. Bob's wife, T. Henry and Clarace Williams, and Bill Wilson who seemed, in Henrietta's view, to have been the answer to their prayers when he called out of the blue and sought to work with another drunk. That drunk was Dr. Bob.
For the full details, read The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous www.dickb.com/Akron.shtml.
Dick B., dickb@dickb.com, www.dickb.com
The facts about how A.A. got to the founding point are scarcely known by many AAs because those facts are not covered in the "basic text" of A.A. that Bill Wilson and his partner published four years later in 1939.
For that reason, I thoroughly researched the real origins of Akron A.A., received the endorsement of the children of Dr. Bob and others who were present at that time. The result was the book "The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous" www.dickb.com/Akron.shtml.
For an accurate, thorough, and valuable work on just how Akron A.A. came to be, this book, The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous, is the book you would enjoy reading and studying.
In brief, it covers a number of founding factors which were later elaborated upon in other titles written by me on A.A.'s founding. However, in summary, the factors were these:
1. Russell Firestone, one of the heirs of the famous Firestone Tire & Rubber dynasty, was a seemingly hopeless drunk.
2. Russell's father, Harvey Firestone, Sr., had spent a great deal of time in Florida with his friends Henry Ford and Thomas Alva Edison. While there, he met a brilliant young man named James Draper Newton who had been assisting Edison when visitors came to meet the famed inventor.
3. Firestone, Sr., was so taken with the abilities of Newton that he brought Newton to Akron and was grooming him to become head of the rubber company. And during his time in Akron, Newton became a good friend of Russell Firestone--at first not knowing about Russell's severe problem with alcoholism.
4. Newton was a staunch "member" of the Oxford Group at that time, was a friend of Oxford Group founder Dr. Frank N.D. Buchman, and of the American Oxford Group leader, Rev. Samuel M. Shoemaker, Jr. And Jim Newton arranged to have Russell, Russell's father, and Newton himself travel with Sam Shoemaker on a train trip to an Episcopal Conference in Denver. Meanwhile, Russell was drinking heavily all the while.
5. On the return trip to Akron, Shoemaker took Russell into a train compartment. There he led Russell Firestone to a decision for Jesus Christ. And Russell was healed. I have seen the diaries of Shoemaker and of Newton and they confirm the foregoing details. And, by the time the train arrived in Akron, the family doctor pronounced Russell's recovery a miracle.
6. For two years Russell and Jim Newton traveled together as Oxford Group activists and witnessed in many locations. Finally, in 1933, the Firestone family was so elated with Russell's success in overcoming drinking that they brought Oxford Group founder Dr. Frank Buchman to Akron to celebrate and witness. Buchman and some 30 Oxford Group people took over the Protestant pulpits and other places in Akron. They gave Christian testimonies and were joined by Russell who spoke of his rebirth, his Bible study, and his victory over alcohol. Most of these facts were widely reported in Akron newspapers, whose articles I have personally read.
7. Aware of Dr. Bob's drinking problem and also having problems of her own, Henrietta Seiberling (wife of one of the Seiberling family members, and an Oxford Group enthusiast, Christian, and Bible student)persuaded Dr. Bob's wife, and two other ladies to come and hear the 1933 testimonials. The four ladies were persuaded that God could help Dr. Bob. They also persuaded T. Henry Williams, husband of one of the ladies, to help them form a small Oxford Group, which later moved to the home of T. Henry.
8. And it was at the small meeting at the home of T. Henry and Clarace Williams in Akron that Dr. Bob admitted he was a "secret drinker." When asked if he would like to pray, Dr. Bob said, "Yes." And he and the group knelt on the rug and prayed for his deliverance.
9. There is much much more to the Akron story. And it is covered in The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous. It details the contributions of Dr. Bob, Henrietta Seiberling, Dr. Bob's wife, T. Henry and Clarace Williams, and Bill Wilson who seemed, in Henrietta's view, to have been the answer to their prayers when he called out of the blue and sought to work with another drunk. That drunk was Dr. Bob.
For the full details, read The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous www.dickb.com/Akron.shtml.
Dick B., dickb@dickb.com, www.dickb.com
"celebrate recovery" or recovery and then celebrate: the difference
Shall we "celebrate recovery" or shall we recover and then celebrate. Recovering from alcoholism and drug addiction is hard work--not an occasion for celebrating, but a challenge to turn one's life of misery and despair to a life pledged to the service and glory of God and His Son Jesus Christ. "By his stripes we were healed." Wholenesss, healing, fellowship, and witnessing mean decision, discipline, and determination to seek God's help diligently and believe He cares and rewards. Dick B.
Reverend Samuel M. Shoemaker, Jr., who spoke to AAs at two of their International Conventions (St. Louis and Long Beach), and who was dubbed a cofounder of A.A. by Bill Wilson addressed the question of what a "spiritual awakening" amounted to.
Shoemaker said it involved four elements: Conversion, Prayer, Fellowship, and Witness.
These all involve work and a process, and that is what early AAs set out to do with the help of Almighty God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible.
Dick B. dickb.com
Reverend Samuel M. Shoemaker, Jr., who spoke to AAs at two of their International Conventions (St. Louis and Long Beach), and who was dubbed a cofounder of A.A. by Bill Wilson addressed the question of what a "spiritual awakening" amounted to.
Shoemaker said it involved four elements: Conversion, Prayer, Fellowship, and Witness.
These all involve work and a process, and that is what early AAs set out to do with the help of Almighty God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible.
Dick B. dickb.com
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Forming "A.A. Literature Study Groups"--a New Plan
International Christian Recovery Coalition exists to inform, to encourage, and to support.
Consequently, in its two years of existence, it has held a major conference of Christian leaders and workers in the recovery community at the Mariners Church Community Center in Irvine, California. It then made available The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide, 3rd ed.; followed by "Introductory Foundations for Christian Recovery" a class of four DVD's with guides www.dickb.com/IFCR-Class.shtml. Next came the launching in January 2011 of our project to establish worldwide Christian Recovery Resource Centers and Persons. This was followed by the publication of The Dick B. Handbook for Christian Recovery Resource Centers. Then followed the establishment of a Speakers Bureau. Finally in the Spring, some 14,000 A.A. history books were distributed free, but for shipping cost, to many parts of the United States and other countries.
Why! To make sure that those in recovery who want God's help know what that requires, where to start, whom to see, where to go, whom to trust, and what the next steps should be.
But recovery means hard work and study and continuing a relationship with God which A.A. itself strongly encouraged in the 1930's.
Our latest project is encouraging and guiding the establishment of "A.A. Literature Study Groups." These will allow recovering AAs and others freely to study all kinds of literature related to Alcoholics Anonymous. It will enable them to do what the early AAs did in both Akron and Cleveland--get informed by study.
This will be announced repeatedly and accompanied by details presented on the internet. Stay tuned.
Dick B., Executive Director, dickb@dickb.com
Consequently, in its two years of existence, it has held a major conference of Christian leaders and workers in the recovery community at the Mariners Church Community Center in Irvine, California. It then made available The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide, 3rd ed.; followed by "Introductory Foundations for Christian Recovery" a class of four DVD's with guides www.dickb.com/IFCR-Class.shtml. Next came the launching in January 2011 of our project to establish worldwide Christian Recovery Resource Centers and Persons. This was followed by the publication of The Dick B. Handbook for Christian Recovery Resource Centers. Then followed the establishment of a Speakers Bureau. Finally in the Spring, some 14,000 A.A. history books were distributed free, but for shipping cost, to many parts of the United States and other countries.
Why! To make sure that those in recovery who want God's help know what that requires, where to start, whom to see, where to go, whom to trust, and what the next steps should be.
But recovery means hard work and study and continuing a relationship with God which A.A. itself strongly encouraged in the 1930's.
Our latest project is encouraging and guiding the establishment of "A.A. Literature Study Groups." These will allow recovering AAs and others freely to study all kinds of literature related to Alcoholics Anonymous. It will enable them to do what the early AAs did in both Akron and Cleveland--get informed by study.
This will be announced repeatedly and accompanied by details presented on the internet. Stay tuned.
Dick B., Executive Director, dickb@dickb.com
Saturday, May 28, 2011
A.A.'s Basic Text - What Is It!
Let me stick to what I have frequently heard in 25 years of attending meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous and now in reading cautionary remarks in various internet posts.
First, I was told that the "basic text" of Alcoholics Anonymous consisted only of the Doctor's Opinion and the first 164 pages.
Next, I watched a number of members tear out the personal stories in the Big Book because they were not a part of the "basic text."
Finally, A.A. itself began publishing material minus the personal stories--having already deleted many of them in prior editions.
As many know, I am very clear from my research that A.A. had two distinctly different programs in the early years after its founding.
(1) The first program was that of the A.A. of Akron Christian Fellowship that Bill W. and Dr. Bob founded in June of 1935. As Dr. Bob pointed out, there were no Steps, there were no Traditions, (and there was no Big Book), there were no drunkalogs, and there were no meetings as we later saw them progress. Dr. Bob further pointed out that AAs believed the answers to their problems were in the Bible. The parts of the Bible considered "absolutely essential," he said, were Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, the Book of James, and 1 Corinthians 13. He also said he did not write the Twelve Steps or have anything to do with the writing of them. The basic ideas, he said, came from their study and effort in the Bible. When Frank Amos did a survey of the Akron program, he specifically enumerated seven points which, Amos said, comprised the "Program" They are set forth on page 131 of A.A. General Service Conference-approved book DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers. And around those seven points, there were about 16 principles and practices that the early AAs applied in seeking and receiving God's help. They are set forth in our book The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide, 3rd ed., 2010.
(2) The second program culminated in the "basic text" which Bill published in 1939 under the name "Works Publishing Company." To paraphrase Bill's statement, the Twelve Steps came from three primary sources--Dr. William D. Silkworth, Professor William James, and the Oxford Group as then led in America, he said, by the Episcopal Rector, Samuel M. Shoemaker, Jr. The end result was the First Edition of Alcoholics Anonymous. In addition to forewords and back matter, it consisted of the Doctor's Opinion, the material where Bill laid out many chapters describing his program, and many personal stories which were written by various members prior to publication. The three segments were tied together by Bill's references to Dr. Silkworth, by his specifying Twelve Suggested Steps of Recovery with instructions for taking them, and then laying out the personal stories. He referred to these stories by saying that each person in his own language and from his own point of view explained how he had established his relationship with God.
And now for the random opinions, deletions, and unwarranted statements I saw and heard.
"This is the Fourth Edition of the Big Book, the Basic Text for Alcoholics Anonymous." That is what the cover of the latest Big Book edition states today, and it was published in 2001.
Whoever invented the absurd idea that a book with 575 pages and xxxii pages of introductory material is somehow not a basic text. A text includes every word in a book. And to cut out Prefaces, Forewords, The Doctor's Opion, Personal Stories, and Appendices defies reason and the English Language. Moreover, it invites students of the text to stop reading until they reach page 1 and quit reading when they hit page 164. I have never seen a teacher or a professor or a drill sergeant tell a student that he or she must not read certain pages because the teacher doesn't like them or think them important. The Personal Stories were to have been the entire content of the original outline of the Big Book prior to 1939.
Whether one prefers to study the original A.A. program of Akron or to study the Big Book program assembled by Bill Wilson with the personal stories, if that student wants to know from a "text" what the program is about, he needs to read the text and not some abbreviated version meeting the desires of some meeting voice.
First, I was told that the "basic text" of Alcoholics Anonymous consisted only of the Doctor's Opinion and the first 164 pages.
Next, I watched a number of members tear out the personal stories in the Big Book because they were not a part of the "basic text."
Finally, A.A. itself began publishing material minus the personal stories--having already deleted many of them in prior editions.
As many know, I am very clear from my research that A.A. had two distinctly different programs in the early years after its founding.
(1) The first program was that of the A.A. of Akron Christian Fellowship that Bill W. and Dr. Bob founded in June of 1935. As Dr. Bob pointed out, there were no Steps, there were no Traditions, (and there was no Big Book), there were no drunkalogs, and there were no meetings as we later saw them progress. Dr. Bob further pointed out that AAs believed the answers to their problems were in the Bible. The parts of the Bible considered "absolutely essential," he said, were Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, the Book of James, and 1 Corinthians 13. He also said he did not write the Twelve Steps or have anything to do with the writing of them. The basic ideas, he said, came from their study and effort in the Bible. When Frank Amos did a survey of the Akron program, he specifically enumerated seven points which, Amos said, comprised the "Program" They are set forth on page 131 of A.A. General Service Conference-approved book DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers. And around those seven points, there were about 16 principles and practices that the early AAs applied in seeking and receiving God's help. They are set forth in our book The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide, 3rd ed., 2010.
(2) The second program culminated in the "basic text" which Bill published in 1939 under the name "Works Publishing Company." To paraphrase Bill's statement, the Twelve Steps came from three primary sources--Dr. William D. Silkworth, Professor William James, and the Oxford Group as then led in America, he said, by the Episcopal Rector, Samuel M. Shoemaker, Jr. The end result was the First Edition of Alcoholics Anonymous. In addition to forewords and back matter, it consisted of the Doctor's Opinion, the material where Bill laid out many chapters describing his program, and many personal stories which were written by various members prior to publication. The three segments were tied together by Bill's references to Dr. Silkworth, by his specifying Twelve Suggested Steps of Recovery with instructions for taking them, and then laying out the personal stories. He referred to these stories by saying that each person in his own language and from his own point of view explained how he had established his relationship with God.
And now for the random opinions, deletions, and unwarranted statements I saw and heard.
"This is the Fourth Edition of the Big Book, the Basic Text for Alcoholics Anonymous." That is what the cover of the latest Big Book edition states today, and it was published in 2001.
Whoever invented the absurd idea that a book with 575 pages and xxxii pages of introductory material is somehow not a basic text. A text includes every word in a book. And to cut out Prefaces, Forewords, The Doctor's Opion, Personal Stories, and Appendices defies reason and the English Language. Moreover, it invites students of the text to stop reading until they reach page 1 and quit reading when they hit page 164. I have never seen a teacher or a professor or a drill sergeant tell a student that he or she must not read certain pages because the teacher doesn't like them or think them important. The Personal Stories were to have been the entire content of the original outline of the Big Book prior to 1939.
Whether one prefers to study the original A.A. program of Akron or to study the Big Book program assembled by Bill Wilson with the personal stories, if that student wants to know from a "text" what the program is about, he needs to read the text and not some abbreviated version meeting the desires of some meeting voice.
AAHistory-Christian Recovery: 1st Dick B. YouTube Presentation Now
AA History-Christian Recovery - Commencing Now the Dick B. YouTube Channel Presentation Series
Video Name: Dick B. 01ws AA History & Christian Recovery: Introduction
URL address: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRXj3T4E3vo
Tune in now if you like!
This is the first and introductory program by Dick B. on his YouTube Channel: dickbchannel. The foregoing name and URL address should enable you to hone in on this important introductory program that summarizes what our series will cover.
I have been blessed to have my son Ken work tirelessly on getting this series started, and we have both been blessed to have Neal Pearson of Texas donate hours of his time getting the material ready for presentation and uploading.
The series will be extensive and the summaries will be exhaustive in their scope. It will cover 21 years of research and writing by Dick B. on Alcoholics Anonymous History and on the history of the Christian Recovery Movement.
Each program is designed to provide a viewer with a brief chunk of history, accompanied by pictures of appropriate, relevant books. And the material can be seen online, heard by groups and meetings, and studied by individuals.
Dick B. dickb@dickb.com
Gloria Deo
Video Name: Dick B. 01ws AA History & Christian Recovery: Introduction
URL address: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRXj3T4E3vo
Tune in now if you like!
This is the first and introductory program by Dick B. on his YouTube Channel: dickbchannel. The foregoing name and URL address should enable you to hone in on this important introductory program that summarizes what our series will cover.
I have been blessed to have my son Ken work tirelessly on getting this series started, and we have both been blessed to have Neal Pearson of Texas donate hours of his time getting the material ready for presentation and uploading.
The series will be extensive and the summaries will be exhaustive in their scope. It will cover 21 years of research and writing by Dick B. on Alcoholics Anonymous History and on the history of the Christian Recovery Movement.
Each program is designed to provide a viewer with a brief chunk of history, accompanied by pictures of appropriate, relevant books. And the material can be seen online, heard by groups and meetings, and studied by individuals.
Dick B. dickb@dickb.com
Gloria Deo
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Location of International Christian Recovery Coalition Participants
ICRC Locations worldwide
Here Are Locations of International Recovery Coalition Participants Who Subscribe to our Mission Statement and Can Help Advance Your Recovery by the power of God
(For names and details, see www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com}
United States of America
Alabama
Birmingham, Calera, Webb
Alaska
None
Arizona
Peoria, Phoenix, Prescott, Scottsdale, Tucson, Yuma,
Arkansas
El Dorado, Rogers
California
Auburn, Brentwood, Calabassas, Capistrano Beach, Carlsbad, Clayton, Concord, Costa Mesa, Escondido, Glendora, Gridley, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Lakeport, Lakeside, Orange, Livermore, Lodi, Monarch Beach, Newport Beach, Norco, Olympic Valley, Palmdale, Pleasanton, Pasadena, Pittsburgh, Point Richmond, Rancho Santa Margarita, Reseda, Rohnert Park, Rowland Heights, Sacramento, San Anselmo, San Diego, San Dimas, San Juan Capistrano, San Pedro, San Rafael, San Jose, Santa Rosa, Sherman Oaks, Sunset Beach, Torrance, Upland, Valencia, Van Nuys, Venice, Woodland, Woodside
Colorado
Aurora, Boulder, Colorado Springs
Connecticut
Bethlehem, Bridgeport, Columbia, Groton, Mashantucket
Delaware
Newark, Townsend, University of Delaware, Wyoming,
Florida
Bradenton, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Gainesville, Hollywood, Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, Lake Worth, Melbourne, Miami, Naples, Niceville, Ocala, Okeechobee, Oldsmar, Orlando, Palm Harbor, Ponte Vedra Beach, Port St. Lucie, Seminole, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Tequesta, Vero Beach, Winter Park
Georgia
Albany, Atlanta, Douglasville, Jackson, (Romans 7 Ministry), Winder
Hawaii
Aiea, Honolulu, Kaneohe (Oahu); Haiku, Kihei, Wailuku (Maui)
Idaho
Boise, Garden City, Weiser
Illinois
Chicago, Deer Grove, Shorewood, St. Charles
Indiana
(Joe Rizzo)
Iowa
North Winthrop
Kansas
Eureka, Wichita
Kentucky
Franklin, Louisville, Prospect, Radcliff
Louisiana
Lafayette, Metairie
Maine
Bangor, Falmouth
Maryland
College Point, Millersville, Smithburg,
Massachusetts
Ashland, Boston, Swansea
Michigan
Saugatuck, Sheboygan
Minnesota
Crookston, Lino Lakes, Orr
Mississippi
Lucedale,
Missouri
Bismarck, Columbia, Kansas City, St. Louis,
Montana
Black Eagle
Nebraska
Norfolk, Omaha
Nevada
Minden, Reno, Las Vegas
New Hampshire
Cornish,
New Jersey
Atlantic City, Morristown, South Orange, Waretown, Washington, Whiting
New Mexico
None
New York
Clay, Centerreach, Jamestown, Long Island, Mexico, Middleburgh, Nesconset, New York, Northport, Nyack, Wading River,
North Carolina
Kingston, Morehead City, Reidsville, Wilmington
North Dakota
None
Ohio
Akron, (Bikers for Christ, South Central) Cincinnati, Cleveland, Cuyahoga Falls, Dayton, Kettering, Milford, Newton Falls, Norton
Oklahoma
Tulsa
Oregon
Albany, Medford
Pennsylvania
Cheswick, Matamoras, McKeesport, Newmanstown, Pittsburgh, Warren
Rhode Island
None
South Carolina
Charleston, Florence, Hamer, Hilton Head Island
South Dakota
None
Tennessee
Franklin, Jamestown, Lawrenceburg, Lenoir City,
Texas
Athens, Austin, Caldwell, Center Point, Central Texas, Cibolo, Dallas, Euless, Ft. Worth, Hitchcock, Houston, Hunt, San Antonio, Sugarland, Texarkana
Utah
Leeds
Vermont
Burlington, East Dorset, St. Johnsbury
Virginia
Chesapeake
Washington
Maple Valley, Redmond, Shelton, Spokane, Tacoma,
West Virginia
None
Wisconsin
Amery
Wyoming
None
Countries Other Than the United States
Australia
Cowes Phillip Island
New South Wales
Sydney
Belgium
(Philippe V.)
Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
Canada
British Columbia
Collingwood, Ontario
Kelowna, British Columbia
Ottowa
Peterborough, Ontario
Toronto, Ontario
Costa Rica
(Corporacion Anonymo SA)
England
Binfield, Berkshire
Buckfast Abbey, Plymouth
Lancashire
Liverpool
Sheffield
Staffordshire
Mexico
(Todd)
Norway
Kjerringov
Scotland
Argyll
The Netherlands
Huesden-Asten
New Zealand
Aukland
POSTED BY DICK B. May 24, 2011
LABELS: INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN RECOVERY COALILTION PARTICIPANTS' LOCATIONS WORLDWIDE
Here Are Locations of International Recovery Coalition Participants Who Subscribe to our Mission Statement and Can Help Advance Your Recovery by the power of God
(For names and details, see www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com}
United States of America
Alabama
Birmingham, Calera, Webb
Alaska
None
Arizona
Peoria, Phoenix, Prescott, Scottsdale, Tucson, Yuma,
Arkansas
El Dorado, Rogers
California
Auburn, Brentwood, Calabassas, Capistrano Beach, Carlsbad, Clayton, Concord, Costa Mesa, Escondido, Glendora, Gridley, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Lakeport, Lakeside, Orange, Livermore, Lodi, Monarch Beach, Newport Beach, Norco, Olympic Valley, Palmdale, Pleasanton, Pasadena, Pittsburgh, Point Richmond, Rancho Santa Margarita, Reseda, Rohnert Park, Rowland Heights, Sacramento, San Anselmo, San Diego, San Dimas, San Juan Capistrano, San Pedro, San Rafael, San Jose, Santa Rosa, Sherman Oaks, Sunset Beach, Torrance, Upland, Valencia, Van Nuys, Venice, Woodland, Woodside
Colorado
Aurora, Boulder, Colorado Springs
Connecticut
Bethlehem, Bridgeport, Columbia, Groton, Mashantucket
Delaware
Newark, Townsend, University of Delaware, Wyoming,
Florida
Bradenton, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Gainesville, Hollywood, Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, Lake Worth, Melbourne, Miami, Naples, Niceville, Ocala, Okeechobee, Oldsmar, Orlando, Palm Harbor, Ponte Vedra Beach, Port St. Lucie, Seminole, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Tequesta, Vero Beach, Winter Park
Georgia
Albany, Atlanta, Douglasville, Jackson, (Romans 7 Ministry), Winder
Hawaii
Aiea, Honolulu, Kaneohe (Oahu); Haiku, Kihei, Wailuku (Maui)
Idaho
Boise, Garden City, Weiser
Illinois
Chicago, Deer Grove, Shorewood, St. Charles
Indiana
(Joe Rizzo)
Iowa
North Winthrop
Kansas
Eureka, Wichita
Kentucky
Franklin, Louisville, Prospect, Radcliff
Louisiana
Lafayette, Metairie
Maine
Bangor, Falmouth
Maryland
College Point, Millersville, Smithburg,
Massachusetts
Ashland, Boston, Swansea
Michigan
Saugatuck, Sheboygan
Minnesota
Crookston, Lino Lakes, Orr
Mississippi
Lucedale,
Missouri
Bismarck, Columbia, Kansas City, St. Louis,
Montana
Black Eagle
Nebraska
Norfolk, Omaha
Nevada
Minden, Reno, Las Vegas
New Hampshire
Cornish,
New Jersey
Atlantic City, Morristown, South Orange, Waretown, Washington, Whiting
New Mexico
None
New York
Clay, Centerreach, Jamestown, Long Island, Mexico, Middleburgh, Nesconset, New York, Northport, Nyack, Wading River,
North Carolina
Kingston, Morehead City, Reidsville, Wilmington
North Dakota
None
Ohio
Akron, (Bikers for Christ, South Central) Cincinnati, Cleveland, Cuyahoga Falls, Dayton, Kettering, Milford, Newton Falls, Norton
Oklahoma
Tulsa
Oregon
Albany, Medford
Pennsylvania
Cheswick, Matamoras, McKeesport, Newmanstown, Pittsburgh, Warren
Rhode Island
None
South Carolina
Charleston, Florence, Hamer, Hilton Head Island
South Dakota
None
Tennessee
Franklin, Jamestown, Lawrenceburg, Lenoir City,
Texas
Athens, Austin, Caldwell, Center Point, Central Texas, Cibolo, Dallas, Euless, Ft. Worth, Hitchcock, Houston, Hunt, San Antonio, Sugarland, Texarkana
Utah
Leeds
Vermont
Burlington, East Dorset, St. Johnsbury
Virginia
Chesapeake
Washington
Maple Valley, Redmond, Shelton, Spokane, Tacoma,
West Virginia
None
Wisconsin
Amery
Wyoming
None
Countries Other Than the United States
Australia
Cowes Phillip Island
New South Wales
Sydney
Belgium
(Philippe V.)
Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
Canada
British Columbia
Collingwood, Ontario
Kelowna, British Columbia
Ottowa
Peterborough, Ontario
Toronto, Ontario
Costa Rica
(Corporacion Anonymo SA)
England
Binfield, Berkshire
Buckfast Abbey, Plymouth
Lancashire
Liverpool
Sheffield
Staffordshire
Mexico
(Todd)
Norway
Kjerringov
Scotland
Argyll
The Netherlands
Huesden-Asten
New Zealand
Aukland
POSTED BY DICK B. May 24, 2011
LABELS: INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN RECOVERY COALILTION PARTICIPANTS' LOCATIONS WORLDWIDE
My Answer to: How do I start a Christian Fellowship for AAs and NAs
I was delighted to receive your message; and I hesitate to try to answer the format point because there are so many good options. And here are some:
A Christian Fellowship meeting – some of which are in progress in Oroville, Brentwood, Livermore, Huntington Beach, Escondido, and Glendora. And they all differ somewhat, but here is their general approach: (a) Limited, brisk, Christian singing and music. (b) Open with genuine Christian prayer “Heavenly Father, we ask in the name of Jesus Christ…..” (c) A speaker who can explain how he hit his low, how he determined to quit for good, how he decided for Jesus Christ, how he realized that the new birth was just the beginning of learning God’s truth both by revelation and from the Bible, how he tries to walk by the spirit each day, and how he seeks to serve and glorify God by bringing others to Jesus Christ, helping them turn to God for healing, and lead the abundant life that Jesus came to make available. (d) Close with prayer.
A Christian Recovery Fellowship meeting – embracing the learning of: (a) Origins of Christian recovery in Bible healings, in the work of Christian organizations in the late 1850’s [Salvation Army, Rescue Missions, Young People’s Society of Christian Endeavor, Evangelists (b) Learning the Christian upbringing of both Bob and Bill. (c) Learning how the first three AAs got sober without steps, traditions, Big Book, drunkalogs, or endless meetings. (d) Learning the essence of the original Akron Christian fellowship: Prayer meetings, Bible studies, Quiet Time, acceptance of Jesus Christ, fellowship, and witnessing. (e) Learning how to recognize and repudiate today’s idolatry which comes from higher powers, “spirituality,” New Thought ideas, and “not-god-ness.” (f) Learning that, whatever the treatment or fellowship program, Christians need to understand their roots, turn to God for help, and grow through prayer, Bible, revelation, fellowship, and witness.
A full fledged Christian recovery program: (a) Reaching out to newcomers with programs that are A.A. Friendly, Bible Friendly, History Friendly, and Newcomer Friendly. (b) Teaching all the elements of Christian recovery: assessment, detox, counseling, true Christian treatment, Bible study, Christian fellowship meetings, emphasis on newcomers, daily fellowship and communication, prayer meetings, fitness, nutrition, employment, housing, education, vocational training, wholesome recreation, and striving for quality achievements. (c) Encouraging a seven-day-a-week effort involving such things as daily prayer, daily Bible study, church or Bible fellowship attendance, eating together, recreating together, witnessing and fellowshipping together. The Book of Acts is the theme.
Frankly, Mario, the longer I research, write, study, and remain sober—and see others in action—the more I favor what we did both in Marin County and then in Maui: (a) I would find a newcomer at an A.A. meeting and qualify him to the end of sponsoring him. (b) I would insist, as did Dr. Bob, that he believe in God, come to Him through Jesus Christ, and study the Bible. (c) Not discourage him from attending A.A. or counseling, but making sure he put God first. (d) Holding regular—sometimes almost daily—Bible fellowships where we would sing together, pray together, hear Bible teaching together, eat together, go to meetings together, go to the movies and the beach and retreats and seminars and musical events together, and work with newcomers. (d) Here some of the A.A. ideas were vital: assessment, detox if needed, commitment never to drink or use again, dealing with temptation, dealing with idolatry, dealng with atheism, and emphasizing victory in the spiritual battle.
Here I will once again have my son Ken send you our materials on participation in the International Christian Recovery Coalition www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com; and establishing a Christian Recovery Coalition Resource program. The latter is important because it provides the class, the recovery guide, the handbook for centers, and a plan for networking and referral.
I trust this is not too big a mouthful, but I like to think we are growing instead of merely establishing. And the growth has come in the last two years of seeing what works with others who share our common emphasis on the role of God, His Son Jesus Christ, the Bible---and healing! Each of our participants seems to take part, but they don’t leave the rest. And we encourage them to start where they are.
Please ponder what Ken is going to send you now. And soon, also, you can get small chunks from my new short YouTube presentations on “dickbchannel.” Should you find yourself able to fund and support a trip by us to speak to your group and/or leaders, we would consider that. This is what we did in California and Oahu in some 23+ meetings, seminars, and conferences.
God bless,
Dick B.
Author, 42 titles & over 500 articles on A.A. History
Exec. Dir., International Christian Recovery Coalition
Christian Recovery Resource Centers - Worldwide
www.DickB.com
DickB@DickB.com
(808) 874-4876
PO Box 837, Kihei, HI 96753-0837
Ps 118:17 (NJB):
I shall not die, I shall live to recount the great deeds of Yahweh.
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
A Christian Fellowship meeting – some of which are in progress in Oroville, Brentwood, Livermore, Huntington Beach, Escondido, and Glendora. And they all differ somewhat, but here is their general approach: (a) Limited, brisk, Christian singing and music. (b) Open with genuine Christian prayer “Heavenly Father, we ask in the name of Jesus Christ…..” (c) A speaker who can explain how he hit his low, how he determined to quit for good, how he decided for Jesus Christ, how he realized that the new birth was just the beginning of learning God’s truth both by revelation and from the Bible, how he tries to walk by the spirit each day, and how he seeks to serve and glorify God by bringing others to Jesus Christ, helping them turn to God for healing, and lead the abundant life that Jesus came to make available. (d) Close with prayer.
A Christian Recovery Fellowship meeting – embracing the learning of: (a) Origins of Christian recovery in Bible healings, in the work of Christian organizations in the late 1850’s [Salvation Army, Rescue Missions, Young People’s Society of Christian Endeavor, Evangelists (b) Learning the Christian upbringing of both Bob and Bill. (c) Learning how the first three AAs got sober without steps, traditions, Big Book, drunkalogs, or endless meetings. (d) Learning the essence of the original Akron Christian fellowship: Prayer meetings, Bible studies, Quiet Time, acceptance of Jesus Christ, fellowship, and witnessing. (e) Learning how to recognize and repudiate today’s idolatry which comes from higher powers, “spirituality,” New Thought ideas, and “not-god-ness.” (f) Learning that, whatever the treatment or fellowship program, Christians need to understand their roots, turn to God for help, and grow through prayer, Bible, revelation, fellowship, and witness.
A full fledged Christian recovery program: (a) Reaching out to newcomers with programs that are A.A. Friendly, Bible Friendly, History Friendly, and Newcomer Friendly. (b) Teaching all the elements of Christian recovery: assessment, detox, counseling, true Christian treatment, Bible study, Christian fellowship meetings, emphasis on newcomers, daily fellowship and communication, prayer meetings, fitness, nutrition, employment, housing, education, vocational training, wholesome recreation, and striving for quality achievements. (c) Encouraging a seven-day-a-week effort involving such things as daily prayer, daily Bible study, church or Bible fellowship attendance, eating together, recreating together, witnessing and fellowshipping together. The Book of Acts is the theme.
Frankly, Mario, the longer I research, write, study, and remain sober—and see others in action—the more I favor what we did both in Marin County and then in Maui: (a) I would find a newcomer at an A.A. meeting and qualify him to the end of sponsoring him. (b) I would insist, as did Dr. Bob, that he believe in God, come to Him through Jesus Christ, and study the Bible. (c) Not discourage him from attending A.A. or counseling, but making sure he put God first. (d) Holding regular—sometimes almost daily—Bible fellowships where we would sing together, pray together, hear Bible teaching together, eat together, go to meetings together, go to the movies and the beach and retreats and seminars and musical events together, and work with newcomers. (d) Here some of the A.A. ideas were vital: assessment, detox if needed, commitment never to drink or use again, dealing with temptation, dealing with idolatry, dealng with atheism, and emphasizing victory in the spiritual battle.
Here I will once again have my son Ken send you our materials on participation in the International Christian Recovery Coalition www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com; and establishing a Christian Recovery Coalition Resource program. The latter is important because it provides the class, the recovery guide, the handbook for centers, and a plan for networking and referral.
I trust this is not too big a mouthful, but I like to think we are growing instead of merely establishing. And the growth has come in the last two years of seeing what works with others who share our common emphasis on the role of God, His Son Jesus Christ, the Bible---and healing! Each of our participants seems to take part, but they don’t leave the rest. And we encourage them to start where they are.
Please ponder what Ken is going to send you now. And soon, also, you can get small chunks from my new short YouTube presentations on “dickbchannel.” Should you find yourself able to fund and support a trip by us to speak to your group and/or leaders, we would consider that. This is what we did in California and Oahu in some 23+ meetings, seminars, and conferences.
God bless,
Dick B.
Author, 42 titles & over 500 articles on A.A. History
Exec. Dir., International Christian Recovery Coalition
Christian Recovery Resource Centers - Worldwide
www.DickB.com
DickB@DickB.com
(808) 874-4876
PO Box 837, Kihei, HI 96753-0837
Ps 118:17 (NJB):
I shall not die, I shall live to recount the great deeds of Yahweh.
Blog
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Preview Briefs on Dick B. YouTube First Eleven Programs
Preview Briefs on the First Eleven Dick B. YouTube Programs
“dickbchannel”
Dick B.
© 2011 Anonymous. All rights reserved
The following brief announcements will be found at the close, respectively, of each of the first eleven programs Dick B. will present on the dickbchannel. The programs, of course, cover A.A. History and the Christian Recovery Movement. These brief announcements have been put in script form, published in audio form, and forwarded to production for inclusion in the programs. The announcements also direct that, at the end of each program, a few designated, relevant books will be displayed on the screen channel.
[Add at the end of Video One:] This first video has briefly introduced you to a number of videos to follow that will lay out for you the history of Alcoholics Anonymous and of the Christian Recovery Movement. And, to highlight the major resources involved in studying these topics, I am displaying two books. The first book is the Holy Bible—from which, according to A.A. cofounder Dr. Bob, came the basic ideas of the Twelve Steps. The second book is the first edition of Alcoholics Anonymous, (affectionately known within A.A. as “the Big Book”) with its “circus cover” dust jacket. As the first edition of the “basic text” of A.A., it illustrates where A.A. cofounder Bill W. changed course from the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program (which had the Bible as a major source) to the Oxford Group’s life-changing program set forth in the Big Book.
[Add at the end of Video Two:] This second video has been about the six major Christian influences on the origins and founding of early A.A. And since all these six influences were the wellsprings from which flowed the ideas used by A.A. cofounders Dr. Bob and Bill, I am displaying two books that exhaustively cover the influences and how they impacted on the co-founders. The first is “Dr. Bob of Alcoholics Anonymous: His Excellent Training in the Bible as a Youngster in Vermont.” The second is “The Conversion of Bill W.: More on the Creator’s Role in Alcoholics Anonymous.”
[Add at the end of Video Three:] This third video has been about “The Great Awakening of 1875 in St. Johnsbury, Vermont.” And we have assembled in one book, Dr. Bob of Alcoholics Anonymous, the wide variety of accounts of this amazing epoch which occurred in Dr. Bob’s home village. That is the book displayed here.
[Add at the end of Video Four:] This fourth video has been about the unique role of the YMCA lay brethren who catalyzed the changes in the Vermont scene and brought about “the Great Awakening of 1875 in St. Johnsbury.” To highlight these points, the first book displayed is The Conversion of Bill W. The second is Dr. Bob of Alcoholics Anonymous. The third is The Castle in the Pasture: Portrait of Burr and Burton Academy. And the fourth is The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide.
[Add at the end of Video Five:] This fifth video has been about the role of the great Christian Evangelists who brought about conversions to God through Jesus Christ in New England and elsewhere, attracted thousands to the Bible and salvation, and in many cases healed drunks. We display here the books: The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide; Roger Bruns, Preacher: Billy Sunday and Big Time American Evangelism; and Roger Towns and Douglas Porter, The Ten Greatest Revivals Ever.
[Add at the end of Video Six] This sixth video has been about the enormous successes of the Gospel Rescue Missions, particularly as seen in Jerry McAuley’s Water Street Mission, the work of S.H. Hadley at Water Street, and the conversions of Ebby Thacher (Bill W.'s “sponsor”) and of Bill W. at Calvary Mission. The books we display here are Samuel H. Hadley’s book, Down in Water Street; J. Wilbur Chapman’s book, S.H. Hadley of Water Street; and my book The Conversion of Bill W.
[Add at the end of Video Seven:] This seventh video has been about that great example of personal work with derelicts and drunks, the Salvation Army. And we display three books: my title, The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide; Harold Begbie’s Twice Born Men; and Howard Clinebell’s book, Understanding and Counseling Persons with Alcohol, Drug, and Behavioral Addictions.
[Add at the end of Video Eight:] This eighth video has been about the very special impact of the Young People’s Society of Christian Endeavor on the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program. The books we display are three of my own: The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide; The James Club and the Original A.A. Program’s Absolute Essentials; and Dr. Bob and His Library.
[Add at the end of Video Nine:] This ninth video has been about how the cluttered explanations of A.A.’s alleged roots contrast with the actual six Christian sources we have covered. And we display four of my titles which will lay out the details for you. The first is The James Club and the Original A.A. Program’s Absolute Essentials. The second is When Early AAs Were Cured and Why. The third is The Oxford Group & Alcoholics Anonymous. And the fourth is New Light on Alcoholism: God, Sam Shoemaker, and A.A.
[Add at the end of Video Ten:] Video Ten has been about the plight of the “seemingly-hopeless” alcoholic or addict as he or she enters recovery today. Today’s A.A. says he or she is “powerless.” Early AAs often used the expression, “I was licked. Alcohol had become my master.” At the close of this video, I am displaying two of my titles which point out that the newcomer is neither licked nor without a solution. The first is my book, A New Way Out. The second is my book, Cured! Proven Help for Alcoholics and Addicts. Both are about the way to God’s power.
[Add at the end of Video Eleven:] Video Eleven has been about the solution to which early AAs turned for help. That solution was God. And I am displaying three books which highlight that solution. The first is the Holy Bible. The second is my book, God and Alcoholism. The third is a book Dr. Bob owned, Healing in Jesus Name, by Ethel Willitts.
“dickbchannel”
Dick B.
© 2011 Anonymous. All rights reserved
The following brief announcements will be found at the close, respectively, of each of the first eleven programs Dick B. will present on the dickbchannel. The programs, of course, cover A.A. History and the Christian Recovery Movement. These brief announcements have been put in script form, published in audio form, and forwarded to production for inclusion in the programs. The announcements also direct that, at the end of each program, a few designated, relevant books will be displayed on the screen channel.
[Add at the end of Video One:] This first video has briefly introduced you to a number of videos to follow that will lay out for you the history of Alcoholics Anonymous and of the Christian Recovery Movement. And, to highlight the major resources involved in studying these topics, I am displaying two books. The first book is the Holy Bible—from which, according to A.A. cofounder Dr. Bob, came the basic ideas of the Twelve Steps. The second book is the first edition of Alcoholics Anonymous, (affectionately known within A.A. as “the Big Book”) with its “circus cover” dust jacket. As the first edition of the “basic text” of A.A., it illustrates where A.A. cofounder Bill W. changed course from the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program (which had the Bible as a major source) to the Oxford Group’s life-changing program set forth in the Big Book.
[Add at the end of Video Two:] This second video has been about the six major Christian influences on the origins and founding of early A.A. And since all these six influences were the wellsprings from which flowed the ideas used by A.A. cofounders Dr. Bob and Bill, I am displaying two books that exhaustively cover the influences and how they impacted on the co-founders. The first is “Dr. Bob of Alcoholics Anonymous: His Excellent Training in the Bible as a Youngster in Vermont.” The second is “The Conversion of Bill W.: More on the Creator’s Role in Alcoholics Anonymous.”
[Add at the end of Video Three:] This third video has been about “The Great Awakening of 1875 in St. Johnsbury, Vermont.” And we have assembled in one book, Dr. Bob of Alcoholics Anonymous, the wide variety of accounts of this amazing epoch which occurred in Dr. Bob’s home village. That is the book displayed here.
[Add at the end of Video Four:] This fourth video has been about the unique role of the YMCA lay brethren who catalyzed the changes in the Vermont scene and brought about “the Great Awakening of 1875 in St. Johnsbury.” To highlight these points, the first book displayed is The Conversion of Bill W. The second is Dr. Bob of Alcoholics Anonymous. The third is The Castle in the Pasture: Portrait of Burr and Burton Academy. And the fourth is The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide.
[Add at the end of Video Five:] This fifth video has been about the role of the great Christian Evangelists who brought about conversions to God through Jesus Christ in New England and elsewhere, attracted thousands to the Bible and salvation, and in many cases healed drunks. We display here the books: The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide; Roger Bruns, Preacher: Billy Sunday and Big Time American Evangelism; and Roger Towns and Douglas Porter, The Ten Greatest Revivals Ever.
[Add at the end of Video Six] This sixth video has been about the enormous successes of the Gospel Rescue Missions, particularly as seen in Jerry McAuley’s Water Street Mission, the work of S.H. Hadley at Water Street, and the conversions of Ebby Thacher (Bill W.'s “sponsor”) and of Bill W. at Calvary Mission. The books we display here are Samuel H. Hadley’s book, Down in Water Street; J. Wilbur Chapman’s book, S.H. Hadley of Water Street; and my book The Conversion of Bill W.
[Add at the end of Video Seven:] This seventh video has been about that great example of personal work with derelicts and drunks, the Salvation Army. And we display three books: my title, The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide; Harold Begbie’s Twice Born Men; and Howard Clinebell’s book, Understanding and Counseling Persons with Alcohol, Drug, and Behavioral Addictions.
[Add at the end of Video Eight:] This eighth video has been about the very special impact of the Young People’s Society of Christian Endeavor on the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program. The books we display are three of my own: The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide; The James Club and the Original A.A. Program’s Absolute Essentials; and Dr. Bob and His Library.
[Add at the end of Video Nine:] This ninth video has been about how the cluttered explanations of A.A.’s alleged roots contrast with the actual six Christian sources we have covered. And we display four of my titles which will lay out the details for you. The first is The James Club and the Original A.A. Program’s Absolute Essentials. The second is When Early AAs Were Cured and Why. The third is The Oxford Group & Alcoholics Anonymous. And the fourth is New Light on Alcoholism: God, Sam Shoemaker, and A.A.
[Add at the end of Video Ten:] Video Ten has been about the plight of the “seemingly-hopeless” alcoholic or addict as he or she enters recovery today. Today’s A.A. says he or she is “powerless.” Early AAs often used the expression, “I was licked. Alcohol had become my master.” At the close of this video, I am displaying two of my titles which point out that the newcomer is neither licked nor without a solution. The first is my book, A New Way Out. The second is my book, Cured! Proven Help for Alcoholics and Addicts. Both are about the way to God’s power.
[Add at the end of Video Eleven:] Video Eleven has been about the solution to which early AAs turned for help. That solution was God. And I am displaying three books which highlight that solution. The first is the Holy Bible. The second is my book, God and Alcoholism. The third is a book Dr. Bob owned, Healing in Jesus Name, by Ethel Willitts.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Chicago Woman Becomes Coalition Participant
Mary Margaret Johnson, Christian Believer, Chicago, Illinois has just become a participant in the International Christian Recovery Coalition.
Dick B., Executive Director
Dick B., Executive Director
Thursday, May 19, 2011
God's Solution for Alcoholism Through the Ages and A.A.
"dickbchannel" -
The Eleventh Dick B. YouTube Channel presentation is a gem you will enjoy.
It covers the "Solution."
It follows the 10th on the absymal plight of the newcomer alcoholic and addict.
It documents the early A.A. Solution - "Divine Aid"
You will hear what the first three AAs--Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob Smith, and Bill Dotson told specifically about how God had "cured" them.
See also www.dickb.com/cured.shtml
The Eleventh Dick B. YouTube Channel presentation is a gem you will enjoy.
It covers the "Solution."
It follows the 10th on the absymal plight of the newcomer alcoholic and addict.
It documents the early A.A. Solution - "Divine Aid"
You will hear what the first three AAs--Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob Smith, and Bill Dotson told specifically about how God had "cured" them.
See also www.dickb.com/cured.shtml
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
A.A. History-Christian Recovery on YouTube: "dickbchannel"
Dick B. Channel on You Tube: "dickbchannel"
The new Dick B. channel is now up and running on YouTube.com. To watch my A.A. History videos, enter "dickbchannel" as Google search term.
Posted by Dick B., Executive Director of International Christian Recovery Coalition www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com
The new Dick B. channel is now up and running on YouTube.com. To watch my A.A. History videos, enter "dickbchannel" as Google search term.
Posted by Dick B., Executive Director of International Christian Recovery Coalition www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Two Recovered Christian Pastors from Arizona Helping Establish Recovery Outreach on Maui and Participate in Coalition
God keeps opening doors so fast we can hardly keep up with them. Yesterday, Dale Marsh, Recovery Pastor of the Oroville Church of the Nazarene, Serenity Group, in California put us in touch with two wonderful recovered Christian gentlemen who are eager to establish a solid Christian residential recovery home on Maui. It will serve for prison outreach, the homeless, alcoholics and addicts, members of Celebrate Recovery, church members, AAs and NAs, and others who want God's help and are willing diligently to seek Him.
The following two men have just become participants in International Christian Recovery Coalition. www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com. And their names and listings are these:
“Pastor Richard DeJacimo, Set Free Christian Fellowship, 77A Kihau Place, Unit A, Haiku, Maui, Hawaii 96708, Phone: 268 3200” Pastor Rick, an Arizona businessman, has been active in contacting those on Maui who may wish to help Christian recovery outreach and resource centers be established in the Islands.
“Kenny Munds, Staff Pastor, Church on the Street (Phoenix); President, Kenny Munds Ministry, 20701 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 107-260, Scottsdale, Arizona 85255;
Singer and entertainer Kenny travels throughout the U.S. sharing his music and testimony in County jails, State Prisons, churches, camps, rescue missions, recovery programs, and “wherever God opens door of opportunity;” 623 521 5382; kenmunds@yahoo.com; www.kenmunds.com” Ken has immense experience in field and ministry experience in Arizona, California, Georgia, Indiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and South Dakota.
This marks a new and highly significant growth and progress concerning Christian Recovery Resources and Outreach in Hawaii. Our first helper was Pastor Ed Gazman of Maui who was doing prison outreach in Maui and distributing Dick B. books there. Next, thanks to the efforts of former Lt. Governor Duke Aiona, we were able--through the funding of benefactors--to send two different sets of free cases of Dick B. history books to each of the fourteen Hawaii correctional institutions wardens and their libraries. Then came our extensive work with Scott Craven in Honolulu who works with Men's Step Study Groups there, providing Step information, A.A. history information, Bible study, and Christian recovery help to alcoholics and addicts. Then came our new partnership with the County of Maui Salvation Army where A/Captain Mark Merritt authorized our use free of an office in Kihei, Hawaii where we maintain the Dick B. and Ken B. Maui Christian Recovery Resource Center.
All this accompanies our growing number of participants in International Christian Recovery Coalition in almost every state and in several other countries; and it accompanies our growing number of Christian Recovery Resource Centers--numbering 27 and growing.
Aloha, Dick B., Executive Director, International Christian Recovery Coalition.
dickb@dickb.com
The following two men have just become participants in International Christian Recovery Coalition. www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com. And their names and listings are these:
“Pastor Richard DeJacimo, Set Free Christian Fellowship, 77A Kihau Place, Unit A, Haiku, Maui, Hawaii 96708, Phone: 268 3200” Pastor Rick, an Arizona businessman, has been active in contacting those on Maui who may wish to help Christian recovery outreach and resource centers be established in the Islands.
“Kenny Munds, Staff Pastor, Church on the Street (Phoenix); President, Kenny Munds Ministry, 20701 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 107-260, Scottsdale, Arizona 85255;
Singer and entertainer Kenny travels throughout the U.S. sharing his music and testimony in County jails, State Prisons, churches, camps, rescue missions, recovery programs, and “wherever God opens door of opportunity;” 623 521 5382; kenmunds@yahoo.com; www.kenmunds.com” Ken has immense experience in field and ministry experience in Arizona, California, Georgia, Indiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and South Dakota.
This marks a new and highly significant growth and progress concerning Christian Recovery Resources and Outreach in Hawaii. Our first helper was Pastor Ed Gazman of Maui who was doing prison outreach in Maui and distributing Dick B. books there. Next, thanks to the efforts of former Lt. Governor Duke Aiona, we were able--through the funding of benefactors--to send two different sets of free cases of Dick B. history books to each of the fourteen Hawaii correctional institutions wardens and their libraries. Then came our extensive work with Scott Craven in Honolulu who works with Men's Step Study Groups there, providing Step information, A.A. history information, Bible study, and Christian recovery help to alcoholics and addicts. Then came our new partnership with the County of Maui Salvation Army where A/Captain Mark Merritt authorized our use free of an office in Kihei, Hawaii where we maintain the Dick B. and Ken B. Maui Christian Recovery Resource Center.
All this accompanies our growing number of participants in International Christian Recovery Coalition in almost every state and in several other countries; and it accompanies our growing number of Christian Recovery Resource Centers--numbering 27 and growing.
Aloha, Dick B., Executive Director, International Christian Recovery Coalition.
dickb@dickb.com
A.A. Women – Non-Alcoholics – Who Helped Found A.A.
A.A. Women – Non-Alcoholics – Who Helped Found A.A.
Dick B.
© 2011 Anonymous. All rights reserved
Women Actually Helping in A.A. Founding in Akron in the 1930’s?
Early A.A. was a Christian Fellowship. Its “membership” consisted of men only. Its founding occurred in June, 1935. Its first group was founded on July 4, 1935. And, by late 1937, its Christian program of recovery was in place. Unquestionably, the co-founders were Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith, and their first success was Akron attorney Bill Dotson. Dotson is known as A.A. Number Three. The ensuing Akron fellowship was a family program. Though not “members,” women taught, counseled, and attended meetings. Women hosted fellowship member visitors in their homes and answered their phone calls at times. Even the kids attended early meetings in Akron—the Smith children and the Seiberling children are good examples.
The following three are the women, highly intelligent teachers, devoted Christians, who were very much involved in prayers, teachings from the Bible, attending meetings, circulating religious literature, and observing Quiet Times.
The Three, Principal, Non-Alcoholic Women Important to Akron A.A. in the 1930’s
Anne Ripley Smith, wife of A.A. co-founder Dr. Bob Smith. Anne was a graduate of Wellesley. She had been a teacher. She served early AAs as cook, housekeeper, teacher, counselor, evangelist, and strong Bible advocate. Anne and her husband Dr. Bob were charter members of an Akron Presbyterian Church. And early A.A. was founded in their home at 855 Ardmore Avenue in Akron. See Dick B., Anne Smith’s Journal-1939: A.A.’s Principles of Success, 3rd ed. (www.dickb.com/annesm.shtml). I have recently posted several articles about Anne Smith’s teachings on my blog site, www.mauihistorian.blogspot.com
Henrietta Buckler Seiberling was the woman who persuaded Dr. Bob to pray with his group for Bob’s own deliverance from alcoholism. She was a graduate of Vassar and a Presbyterian. She fielded the call from stranger Bill Wilson that answered the group’s prayers. She introduced Bill Wilson to Dr. Bob Smith in her Gate Lodge home on the Seiberling Estate in Akron. And, according to one account, Henrietta “called the shots” at the regular Wednesday A.A. meetings. She taught from the Bible and devotionals. And she and her three children—John, Dorothy, and Mary—attended the early meetings. See Dick B., Henrietta B. Seiberling: Ohio’s Lady with a Cause, 4th ed. (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 2006) – ISBN 1-885803-93-1
(www.dickb.com/titles.shtml).
Clarace Williams, wife of T. Henry Williams, and the initiator of Oxford Group contacts by T. Henry in Akron. The story of T. Henry and his wife Clarace has scarcely been known or accurately reported. But the details are now available in Dick B., The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous, 2d ed., pages 65-78. www.dickb.com/Akron.shtml. Key points regarding Clarace are these: (1) She was the second wife of T. Henry, marrying T. Henry in 1921. (2) Clarace had attended a Baptist missionary school in Chicago and went on to graduate from Ottowa University, a Christian institution in Ottowa, Kansas. (3) Clarace attended an Oxford Group gathering in Akron and later persuaded T. Henry to become interested. (4) She and T. Henry designed the home on Palisades Drive in Akron where the first “regular” weekly meetings of A.A. were held. (5) Clarace decided to go to Oxford and learn more about witnessing work. (6) Later she and T. Henry dedicated their home to God. (7) Both T. Henry and Clarace were close friends of Dr. Bob and Anne Smith; got to know Bill W. and then his wife Lois; and provided a Monday set-up meeting, the regular Wednesday meeting, and a Saturday social meeting for the fledgling alcoholics in Akron. (8) Clarace and T. Henry were non-drinkers, were devoted to their church and the Bible, and regularly observed Quiet Time and other Oxford Group practices (9) T. Henry had been a deacon in a large Baptist Church in Akron and a Sunday school teacher; but later he and Clarace joined a Methodist Church nearer to their home.
Gloria Deo
Dick B.
© 2011 Anonymous. All rights reserved
Women Actually Helping in A.A. Founding in Akron in the 1930’s?
Early A.A. was a Christian Fellowship. Its “membership” consisted of men only. Its founding occurred in June, 1935. Its first group was founded on July 4, 1935. And, by late 1937, its Christian program of recovery was in place. Unquestionably, the co-founders were Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith, and their first success was Akron attorney Bill Dotson. Dotson is known as A.A. Number Three. The ensuing Akron fellowship was a family program. Though not “members,” women taught, counseled, and attended meetings. Women hosted fellowship member visitors in their homes and answered their phone calls at times. Even the kids attended early meetings in Akron—the Smith children and the Seiberling children are good examples.
The following three are the women, highly intelligent teachers, devoted Christians, who were very much involved in prayers, teachings from the Bible, attending meetings, circulating religious literature, and observing Quiet Times.
The Three, Principal, Non-Alcoholic Women Important to Akron A.A. in the 1930’s
Anne Ripley Smith, wife of A.A. co-founder Dr. Bob Smith. Anne was a graduate of Wellesley. She had been a teacher. She served early AAs as cook, housekeeper, teacher, counselor, evangelist, and strong Bible advocate. Anne and her husband Dr. Bob were charter members of an Akron Presbyterian Church. And early A.A. was founded in their home at 855 Ardmore Avenue in Akron. See Dick B., Anne Smith’s Journal-1939: A.A.’s Principles of Success, 3rd ed. (www.dickb.com/annesm.shtml). I have recently posted several articles about Anne Smith’s teachings on my blog site, www.mauihistorian.blogspot.com
Henrietta Buckler Seiberling was the woman who persuaded Dr. Bob to pray with his group for Bob’s own deliverance from alcoholism. She was a graduate of Vassar and a Presbyterian. She fielded the call from stranger Bill Wilson that answered the group’s prayers. She introduced Bill Wilson to Dr. Bob Smith in her Gate Lodge home on the Seiberling Estate in Akron. And, according to one account, Henrietta “called the shots” at the regular Wednesday A.A. meetings. She taught from the Bible and devotionals. And she and her three children—John, Dorothy, and Mary—attended the early meetings. See Dick B., Henrietta B. Seiberling: Ohio’s Lady with a Cause, 4th ed. (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 2006) – ISBN 1-885803-93-1
(www.dickb.com/titles.shtml).
Clarace Williams, wife of T. Henry Williams, and the initiator of Oxford Group contacts by T. Henry in Akron. The story of T. Henry and his wife Clarace has scarcely been known or accurately reported. But the details are now available in Dick B., The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous, 2d ed., pages 65-78. www.dickb.com/Akron.shtml. Key points regarding Clarace are these: (1) She was the second wife of T. Henry, marrying T. Henry in 1921. (2) Clarace had attended a Baptist missionary school in Chicago and went on to graduate from Ottowa University, a Christian institution in Ottowa, Kansas. (3) Clarace attended an Oxford Group gathering in Akron and later persuaded T. Henry to become interested. (4) She and T. Henry designed the home on Palisades Drive in Akron where the first “regular” weekly meetings of A.A. were held. (5) Clarace decided to go to Oxford and learn more about witnessing work. (6) Later she and T. Henry dedicated their home to God. (7) Both T. Henry and Clarace were close friends of Dr. Bob and Anne Smith; got to know Bill W. and then his wife Lois; and provided a Monday set-up meeting, the regular Wednesday meeting, and a Saturday social meeting for the fledgling alcoholics in Akron. (8) Clarace and T. Henry were non-drinkers, were devoted to their church and the Bible, and regularly observed Quiet Time and other Oxford Group practices (9) T. Henry had been a deacon in a large Baptist Church in Akron and a Sunday school teacher; but later he and Clarace joined a Methodist Church nearer to their home.
Gloria Deo
Maui Christian Recovery Outreach Blessed by Recovered Christian Singers
It hasn't happened all at once. But Maui has seen some well-known recovered Christian singers doing Christian recovery outreach in this Valley Isle.
The first one I heard of was Walter Santos (Santos Ministries) of Carslbad, California. Walter contacted me years back to say he was in Oahu and would be in Maui "Singing for the King." Santos has been honored with the DooWap Hall of Fame. And he charges up audiences in prisons, in meetings, and in conferences (including ours) all over the United States. He has also been closely associated with the famous Calvary Ranch in Lakeside--a remarkable Christian recovery facility where Santos himself found healing years ago. Santos has delivered Christian music at a number of the conferences of participants in International Christian Recovery Coalition. He's still at it!
Next came Darrell Mansfield. This recovered Christian harmonica king has entertained widely for years. We met him first in Orange County thanks to an introduction by a leading radio and TV personality who is also a leading Christian Marriage and Family Counselor. The man is Dr. Bob Noonan. We learned that Darrell lives in Orange County and has been elevated to the Blues Hall of Fame. He absolutely wows audiences with his harmonica and combo people that support him. And not too long ago, he visited Maui and performed on a wonderful sunset cruise for a church group. He appeared at several other Maui entertainment spots. And always, he makes clear his love for the Lord Jesus Christ.
And just now, Dale Marsh of the Oroville Church of the Nazarene in California, leader of their Serenity Group and recovery work, phoned to tell us who is now on Maui. We will be having lunch with him tomorrow (May 17th). And he has a website, a Christian ministry, and a long history of bringing the love of God to the homeless and imprisoned as well as those suffering from alcoholism and addiction. His name is Kenny Munds. He has just brought his signing ministry to the imprisoned at Maui Correctional Center and will be serving other needs on Maui while he is here. Kenny Munds has a strong ministry in Arizona.
Bless these men. I strongly believe that the outreach to folks who are in prison, are homeless, are hospitalized, and are endeavoring to recover from alcoholism and addiction is much strengthened when these folks hear talented (and also famous)recovered Christian ministry singers who unselfishly travel widely to enable the suffering to say "I saw the light."
The first one I heard of was Walter Santos (Santos Ministries) of Carslbad, California. Walter contacted me years back to say he was in Oahu and would be in Maui "Singing for the King." Santos has been honored with the DooWap Hall of Fame. And he charges up audiences in prisons, in meetings, and in conferences (including ours) all over the United States. He has also been closely associated with the famous Calvary Ranch in Lakeside--a remarkable Christian recovery facility where Santos himself found healing years ago. Santos has delivered Christian music at a number of the conferences of participants in International Christian Recovery Coalition. He's still at it!
Next came Darrell Mansfield. This recovered Christian harmonica king has entertained widely for years. We met him first in Orange County thanks to an introduction by a leading radio and TV personality who is also a leading Christian Marriage and Family Counselor. The man is Dr. Bob Noonan. We learned that Darrell lives in Orange County and has been elevated to the Blues Hall of Fame. He absolutely wows audiences with his harmonica and combo people that support him. And not too long ago, he visited Maui and performed on a wonderful sunset cruise for a church group. He appeared at several other Maui entertainment spots. And always, he makes clear his love for the Lord Jesus Christ.
And just now, Dale Marsh of the Oroville Church of the Nazarene in California, leader of their Serenity Group and recovery work, phoned to tell us who is now on Maui. We will be having lunch with him tomorrow (May 17th). And he has a website, a Christian ministry, and a long history of bringing the love of God to the homeless and imprisoned as well as those suffering from alcoholism and addiction. His name is Kenny Munds. He has just brought his signing ministry to the imprisoned at Maui Correctional Center and will be serving other needs on Maui while he is here. Kenny Munds has a strong ministry in Arizona.
Bless these men. I strongly believe that the outreach to folks who are in prison, are homeless, are hospitalized, and are endeavoring to recover from alcoholism and addiction is much strengthened when these folks hear talented (and also famous)recovered Christian ministry singers who unselfishly travel widely to enable the suffering to say "I saw the light."
Monday, May 16, 2011
Better DickB URL for YouTube
Progress. Progress. Here is a better URL for our YouTube Project and Channel:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlV3gOv3xRo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlV3gOv3xRo
How to Become a Christian Recovery Resource Center (or Person) Now
Details on How to Become a Christian Recovery Resource Center (or Person) Today
Note: We now offer a deep discount on the "license fee" for the "Introductory Foundations for Christian Recovery" ("IFCR") class by Dick B. and Ken B. (2010) on four DVDs. And we also offer the IFCR class as part of the "new Participant package" received by individuals, groups, and organizations that become a "Christian Recovery Resource Center or Person."
Here is some current information as to how to become a "Christian Recovery Resource Center or Person," a project of the International Christian Recovery Coalition.
Each individual, group, or organization that becomes a "Christian Recovery Resource Center" (or "Person") receives a "new Participant package."
The "Christian Recovery Resource Center" new Participant package includes a "site license" for the "Introductory Foundations for Christian Recovery" ("IFCR") class for Groups and Organizations (2010) by Dick B. & Ken B. on four DVD's.
The "site license" for the IFCR class for Groups and Organizations includes:
The four IFCR class DVDs (about one hour each);
One hard copy of the IFCR Class Guide for Students (8 1/2" x 11", spiral bound);
One hard copy of the IFCR Class Instructor's Guide (8 1/2" x 11", spiral bound); and
One hard copy of The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide, 3rd ed., by Dick B. and Ken B. (8 1/2" x 11", spiral bound)
The "site license" for the IFCR class for Groups and Organizations also comes with limited reproduction rights for the books in the class--specifically, the right to duplicate one (1) copy per class instructor of: (1) the IFCR Class Instructor's Guide; and (2) The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide, 3rd ed. In addition, you may reproduce as many copies of the IFCR Class Guide for Students as will be necessary so that each student in any class you personally oversee may have one (1) copy of that Guide.
In addition, the "Christian Recovery Resource Center" new Participant package also includes The Dick B. Handbook for Christian Recovery Resource Centers Worldwide by Dick B. with Ken B. (2011) in 8 1/2" x 11", spiral bound, format.
Finally, the new Participant package includes a free case (box) of new books by Dick B. that you may use for free distribution or for resale to support your Christian recovery work.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you need further background information about "Christian Recovery Resource Centers," please see:
http://christianrecoverycoalition.com/
and
http://christianrecoverycoalition.com/christian-recovery-resource-centers.shtml
To become a "Christian Recovery Resource Center," a one-time, $500.00 donation is required, payable to "Dick B." To make the donation, you may call me (Ken B.) on my cell at (808) 276-4945 with your credit card (MasterCard or VISA) or debit card information. Or, if you would like to pay securely online using a credit card, debit card, or PayPal, please call me for payment instructions. Or, you may send a money order or check payable to "Dick B." to:
Dick B.
PO Box 837
Kihei, HI 96753-0837
(Please write "CRRC" in the money order or check "memo field" so we know what it is for.)
We look forward to hearing from you.
Ken B.
Cell: (808) 276-4945
Note: We now offer a deep discount on the "license fee" for the "Introductory Foundations for Christian Recovery" ("IFCR") class by Dick B. and Ken B. (2010) on four DVDs. And we also offer the IFCR class as part of the "new Participant package" received by individuals, groups, and organizations that become a "Christian Recovery Resource Center or Person."
Here is some current information as to how to become a "Christian Recovery Resource Center or Person," a project of the International Christian Recovery Coalition.
Each individual, group, or organization that becomes a "Christian Recovery Resource Center" (or "Person") receives a "new Participant package."
The "Christian Recovery Resource Center" new Participant package includes a "site license" for the "Introductory Foundations for Christian Recovery" ("IFCR") class for Groups and Organizations (2010) by Dick B. & Ken B. on four DVD's.
The "site license" for the IFCR class for Groups and Organizations includes:
The four IFCR class DVDs (about one hour each);
One hard copy of the IFCR Class Guide for Students (8 1/2" x 11", spiral bound);
One hard copy of the IFCR Class Instructor's Guide (8 1/2" x 11", spiral bound); and
One hard copy of The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide, 3rd ed., by Dick B. and Ken B. (8 1/2" x 11", spiral bound)
The "site license" for the IFCR class for Groups and Organizations also comes with limited reproduction rights for the books in the class--specifically, the right to duplicate one (1) copy per class instructor of: (1) the IFCR Class Instructor's Guide; and (2) The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide, 3rd ed. In addition, you may reproduce as many copies of the IFCR Class Guide for Students as will be necessary so that each student in any class you personally oversee may have one (1) copy of that Guide.
In addition, the "Christian Recovery Resource Center" new Participant package also includes The Dick B. Handbook for Christian Recovery Resource Centers Worldwide by Dick B. with Ken B. (2011) in 8 1/2" x 11", spiral bound, format.
Finally, the new Participant package includes a free case (box) of new books by Dick B. that you may use for free distribution or for resale to support your Christian recovery work.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you need further background information about "Christian Recovery Resource Centers," please see:
http://christianrecoverycoalition.com/
and
http://christianrecoverycoalition.com/christian-recovery-resource-centers.shtml
To become a "Christian Recovery Resource Center," a one-time, $500.00 donation is required, payable to "Dick B." To make the donation, you may call me (Ken B.) on my cell at (808) 276-4945 with your credit card (MasterCard or VISA) or debit card information. Or, if you would like to pay securely online using a credit card, debit card, or PayPal, please call me for payment instructions. Or, you may send a money order or check payable to "Dick B." to:
Dick B.
PO Box 837
Kihei, HI 96753-0837
(Please write "CRRC" in the money order or check "memo field" so we know what it is for.)
We look forward to hearing from you.
Ken B.
Cell: (808) 276-4945
Healing Alcoholics and Addicts by God's Power is Not a New Solution
The History of Alcoholics Anonymous and the Christian Recovery Movement
Dick B.
© 2011 Anonymous. All rights reserved
The Healing Solution for Drunks is Not a New One
This is the eleventh article in a series. And it moves forward from the tenth which described the seemingly-hopeless plight of the alcoholic. This article covers the solution to alcoholism and addiction that has been available throughout the ages and was the heart of the Christian Recovery Movement and of the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program that emerged from it in 1935.
My name is Dick B. I am an active, recovered member of the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous.
In the previous article, I lumped together many of the difficulties that confront an end-of-the-line alcoholic or addict who faces the possibility of interminable disasters versus a hope that emerges from seeking a solution that works.
Today, recovery fellowships, treatment programs, scientists, writers, and even a number of religious entities have been veering farther and farther from the power of God as a demonstrable, effective option for the alcoholic or addict who suffers and suffers and suffers, and returns for more. Arguments against Divine Aid emanate from those who don’t believe in God, don’t like religion, don’t believe history, don’t seems to believe in much but research, therapy, science, pharmaceuticals, and psychology, and in many cases blame their own failures on a program that turns to God. Some religious people regularly try to drive alcoholics and addicts from recovery fellowships based on establishing a relationship with God through Jesus Christ by claiming the recovery fellowships are “not of the Lord,” involve “steps to destruction,” and are non-Christian and contrary to biblical texts.
But here are some demonstrable, long-standing, experiential testimonies and witnesses of the ages. And we will merely summarize a limited number of these here: (1) In Old Testament times, there are accounts of the miracles God performed for Noah, Abraham, Moses, and countless others. (2) In reports in the Gospels, there is testimony of healings by Jesus of blindness, deafness, dumbness, lameness, leprosy, and other oppressions. There are solid examples of his raising the dead. (3) Once early Christians received the gift of the Holy Spirit in its fullness on the Day of Pentecost (Acts chapter 2), they accomplished the very things that Jesus had accomplished—they raised people from the dead (Tabitha and Eutychus); they healed people lame from birth; they healed other sick people, they healed people vexed with unclean spirits, they healed many paralyzed and lame folks; Ananias restored Saul’s sight; Peter helped Aeneas to be made whole from paralysis; Paul healed a man who never had walked and cast a spirit of divination out of a woman; Paul was healed from the viper’s bite, and he healed the father of Publius of fever and dysentery; and others where Paul was shipwrecked were healed as well.
In several of my books, I have listed account after account of healings by Christians from Apostolic times to the present. As I have shown, evangelists, rescue missions, Salvation Army people, and other Christians healed alcoholics with God’s power. And this particular situation seems to have caught Dr. Bob’s attention when the great evangelist, Ethel Willitts, spent 15 weeks in Akron from October 1938 through January 1939, carrying out Christian healings. In fact, her book, Healing in Jesus' Name, along with many other healing books, was found by me in Dr. Bob’s own library of books.
Even early AAs clearly testified in newspapers and articles that they has been healed (“cured” was the word often used) of alcoholism by the power of God.
As we progress in future articles, we will see how the early AAs time after time professed their belief in God, came to Him through His Son Jesus Christ, and were cured of alcoholism. And it was this unique situation involving drunks helping drunks to obtain help from God that put early A.A. on the map. It is also mentioned over and over and over in the first edition of Alcoholics Anonymous (affectionately known as “the Big Book”) that Bill Wilson assembled in 1938 and 1939. And it was left in place in the Big Book even after his famous compromise with three other people on the language of Steps Two, Three, and Eleven that took place on the East Coast just before the Wilson text went to print.
And what was the solution presented to seemingly-hopeless drunks by the founders of A.A. and their early counterparts?
Bill Wilson said, in quoted remarks on page 191 of the fourth edition of his Big Book (2001), “The Lord has been so wonderful to me, curing me of this terrible disease, that I just want to keep talking about it and telling people.”
A.A. Number Three, Bill Dotson of Akron, recounted Bill’s words on that same page of the fourth edition of the Big Book and said: “That sentence, ‘The Lord has been so wonderful to me, curing me of this terrible disease, that I just want to keep telling people about it,’ has been a sort of a golden text for the A.A. program and for me.”
A.A. cofounder Dr. Bob was the second AA to be cured and phoned a nurse at Akron City Hospital to inform her that he had found a cure for alcoholism and been cured. In his personal story, he wrote: “It is a most wonderful blessing to be relieved of the terrible curse with which I was afflicted.” And at the close of his personal story, he assured others: “Your Heavenly Father will never let you down!”
Bill Wilson later embodied the solution to alcoholism with a challenge and an emphatic statement in the Big Book he published in 1939. He wrote: “Without help it is too much for us. But there is One who has all power—that One is God. May you find Him now!” He concluded his discussion of the suggested Twelve Steps with the assurance “That God could and would if He were sought.”
Whether an afflicted alcoholic or addict wants to receive God’s power, love, forgiveness, and healing or not, there is little doubt that this was the solution offered in A.A.’s earliest views. Its veracity was based on what the Bible itself assured. And it is a solution for which early A.A. claimed a 75% success rate among the early drunks who had thoroughly followed the suggested path. And, when the same ideas, coupled with the Program of the Big Book, were introduced in Cleveland in 1939, those ideas produced a documented 93% success rate.
These articles, then, will explain in brief summaries the role of God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible in healings throughout the centuries—including in early A.A. and still available today. And God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible are still available—in or out of A.A., in or out of church, in or out of a hospital, in or out of treatment, in or out of therapy, in and out of Christian fellowships, and in many other places where the afflicted start their journey toward recovery.
Dick B.
© 2011 Anonymous. All rights reserved
The Healing Solution for Drunks is Not a New One
This is the eleventh article in a series. And it moves forward from the tenth which described the seemingly-hopeless plight of the alcoholic. This article covers the solution to alcoholism and addiction that has been available throughout the ages and was the heart of the Christian Recovery Movement and of the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program that emerged from it in 1935.
My name is Dick B. I am an active, recovered member of the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous.
In the previous article, I lumped together many of the difficulties that confront an end-of-the-line alcoholic or addict who faces the possibility of interminable disasters versus a hope that emerges from seeking a solution that works.
Today, recovery fellowships, treatment programs, scientists, writers, and even a number of religious entities have been veering farther and farther from the power of God as a demonstrable, effective option for the alcoholic or addict who suffers and suffers and suffers, and returns for more. Arguments against Divine Aid emanate from those who don’t believe in God, don’t like religion, don’t believe history, don’t seems to believe in much but research, therapy, science, pharmaceuticals, and psychology, and in many cases blame their own failures on a program that turns to God. Some religious people regularly try to drive alcoholics and addicts from recovery fellowships based on establishing a relationship with God through Jesus Christ by claiming the recovery fellowships are “not of the Lord,” involve “steps to destruction,” and are non-Christian and contrary to biblical texts.
But here are some demonstrable, long-standing, experiential testimonies and witnesses of the ages. And we will merely summarize a limited number of these here: (1) In Old Testament times, there are accounts of the miracles God performed for Noah, Abraham, Moses, and countless others. (2) In reports in the Gospels, there is testimony of healings by Jesus of blindness, deafness, dumbness, lameness, leprosy, and other oppressions. There are solid examples of his raising the dead. (3) Once early Christians received the gift of the Holy Spirit in its fullness on the Day of Pentecost (Acts chapter 2), they accomplished the very things that Jesus had accomplished—they raised people from the dead (Tabitha and Eutychus); they healed people lame from birth; they healed other sick people, they healed people vexed with unclean spirits, they healed many paralyzed and lame folks; Ananias restored Saul’s sight; Peter helped Aeneas to be made whole from paralysis; Paul healed a man who never had walked and cast a spirit of divination out of a woman; Paul was healed from the viper’s bite, and he healed the father of Publius of fever and dysentery; and others where Paul was shipwrecked were healed as well.
In several of my books, I have listed account after account of healings by Christians from Apostolic times to the present. As I have shown, evangelists, rescue missions, Salvation Army people, and other Christians healed alcoholics with God’s power. And this particular situation seems to have caught Dr. Bob’s attention when the great evangelist, Ethel Willitts, spent 15 weeks in Akron from October 1938 through January 1939, carrying out Christian healings. In fact, her book, Healing in Jesus' Name, along with many other healing books, was found by me in Dr. Bob’s own library of books.
Even early AAs clearly testified in newspapers and articles that they has been healed (“cured” was the word often used) of alcoholism by the power of God.
As we progress in future articles, we will see how the early AAs time after time professed their belief in God, came to Him through His Son Jesus Christ, and were cured of alcoholism. And it was this unique situation involving drunks helping drunks to obtain help from God that put early A.A. on the map. It is also mentioned over and over and over in the first edition of Alcoholics Anonymous (affectionately known as “the Big Book”) that Bill Wilson assembled in 1938 and 1939. And it was left in place in the Big Book even after his famous compromise with three other people on the language of Steps Two, Three, and Eleven that took place on the East Coast just before the Wilson text went to print.
And what was the solution presented to seemingly-hopeless drunks by the founders of A.A. and their early counterparts?
Bill Wilson said, in quoted remarks on page 191 of the fourth edition of his Big Book (2001), “The Lord has been so wonderful to me, curing me of this terrible disease, that I just want to keep talking about it and telling people.”
A.A. Number Three, Bill Dotson of Akron, recounted Bill’s words on that same page of the fourth edition of the Big Book and said: “That sentence, ‘The Lord has been so wonderful to me, curing me of this terrible disease, that I just want to keep telling people about it,’ has been a sort of a golden text for the A.A. program and for me.”
A.A. cofounder Dr. Bob was the second AA to be cured and phoned a nurse at Akron City Hospital to inform her that he had found a cure for alcoholism and been cured. In his personal story, he wrote: “It is a most wonderful blessing to be relieved of the terrible curse with which I was afflicted.” And at the close of his personal story, he assured others: “Your Heavenly Father will never let you down!”
Bill Wilson later embodied the solution to alcoholism with a challenge and an emphatic statement in the Big Book he published in 1939. He wrote: “Without help it is too much for us. But there is One who has all power—that One is God. May you find Him now!” He concluded his discussion of the suggested Twelve Steps with the assurance “That God could and would if He were sought.”
Whether an afflicted alcoholic or addict wants to receive God’s power, love, forgiveness, and healing or not, there is little doubt that this was the solution offered in A.A.’s earliest views. Its veracity was based on what the Bible itself assured. And it is a solution for which early A.A. claimed a 75% success rate among the early drunks who had thoroughly followed the suggested path. And, when the same ideas, coupled with the Program of the Big Book, were introduced in Cleveland in 1939, those ideas produced a documented 93% success rate.
These articles, then, will explain in brief summaries the role of God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible in healings throughout the centuries—including in early A.A. and still available today. And God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible are still available—in or out of A.A., in or out of church, in or out of a hospital, in or out of treatment, in or out of therapy, in and out of Christian fellowships, and in many other places where the afflicted start their journey toward recovery.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Sketching the Plight of the Sick, Bewildered Newcomer Today
Sketching the Plight of the Sick, Bewildered Newcomer Today
Dick B.
© 2011 Anonymous. All rights reserved
The State of the Alcoholic or Addict Entering Recovery
This person has made some terrible mistakes. He has wronged many around him. He sometimes blames everyone but himself. And he is frequently the last to conclude that he has a problem with alcohol, with drugs, with society, with sin, and with life—all mixed into one big mess.
Worse, if he quits, he endangers his life. If he has quit before, he is sure to remember that it was far more difficult to stop and suffer than to resume and march toward seeming relief and yet oblivion. If he continues, he dwells in misery and watches things get more and more difficult. And then he faces the music.
It may be a judge who jails him. It may be a boss that fires him. It may be a wife who divorces him. It may be a child who flees from him. It may be a family that lectures him and speaks down to him. It may be a lawyer who sues him. It may be a doctor who sends him to A.A. or N.A. It may be a psychologist or psychiatrist who diagnoses him as dually addicted—today it could be ADD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety disorder, or almost irreparable brain damage; and an answer may be offered through diagnosis, drugs, counseling, and confinement. It may be a clergyman who tells him he has sinned and must repent and be saved. It may be a “codependent” who tries to “save” him, to admonish him, to control him, and yet to enable him. It may be another A.A. or N.A. who tells him he just needs to quit drinking and go to meetings. It may be another 12-Step zealot who tells him he will have a “spiritual awakening” and overcome his problems if he “works” the program. It may even be an atheist or agnostic or a naive A.A. individual, who tells him he simply needs to go through some exercises, change his behavior, and get rid of his self-centeredness—and thereby have a “personality change.” He is almost certain to meet an anti-God, irreligious person who tells him he must get rid of all his religious trappings and training and either rely on himself or invent some “higher power” of his own conception. He may encounter a Christian minority who insist that A.A. is of the devil, that believers must not go there, and that the Bible forbids such fellowshipping. He may also encounter those who tell him all the “terrible” practices and beliefs of the early AAs which allegedly tainted the entire fellowship then and now. And on and on.
All this while he is facing criminal charges, debt or bankruptcy, divorce or abandonment, loss of job or reputation, lectures from his family, custody battles over his kids, and some of the most unexpected results of DT’s, seizures, and withdrawal that he could ever have imagined. And he may be “enjoying” or “enduring” these situations in a jail or prison or mental ward.
On top of that, today’s scene is peppered with treatment programs, pastoral counselors, secular counseling programs, required abstinence programs, interventions, detox centers, assessments, lack of funds, lack of insurance, lack of support, and probably joblessness.
He faces these—often alone—with brain damage, fear, bewilderment, confusion, anxiety, shame, guilt, condemnation, despair, and hopelessness.
This person is one sick, sad, hurting, despondent “sinner.”
And he is heavily pounded with dogmatic insistence that his problems are of his own making. Bottles, they tell him, were only a symbol. He has been playing God and discovered he wasn’t. One seer wrote that his real problem was “not-god-ness.” Yet nothing seems to work out.
It is not uncommon for him to take his own life, overdose and threaten it, or ponder suicide.
Almost all of us who have attended A.A., N.A., or recovery meetings have heard these details or even told them ourselves over and over and over. In fact, the funnier they are, the more popular they are. The more horrid the events, the more engaging they are to the audience.
Is There a Solution?
Stay tuned for the next article. Learn the varied ways in which the sick newcomer is told he can “recover,” but never get well. Learn how this approach differs from earlier ones in the 1800’s, early 1900’s, and earliest A.A. days. Learn how God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible became a part of the picture.
Gloria Deo
Dick B.
© 2011 Anonymous. All rights reserved
The State of the Alcoholic or Addict Entering Recovery
This person has made some terrible mistakes. He has wronged many around him. He sometimes blames everyone but himself. And he is frequently the last to conclude that he has a problem with alcohol, with drugs, with society, with sin, and with life—all mixed into one big mess.
Worse, if he quits, he endangers his life. If he has quit before, he is sure to remember that it was far more difficult to stop and suffer than to resume and march toward seeming relief and yet oblivion. If he continues, he dwells in misery and watches things get more and more difficult. And then he faces the music.
It may be a judge who jails him. It may be a boss that fires him. It may be a wife who divorces him. It may be a child who flees from him. It may be a family that lectures him and speaks down to him. It may be a lawyer who sues him. It may be a doctor who sends him to A.A. or N.A. It may be a psychologist or psychiatrist who diagnoses him as dually addicted—today it could be ADD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety disorder, or almost irreparable brain damage; and an answer may be offered through diagnosis, drugs, counseling, and confinement. It may be a clergyman who tells him he has sinned and must repent and be saved. It may be a “codependent” who tries to “save” him, to admonish him, to control him, and yet to enable him. It may be another A.A. or N.A. who tells him he just needs to quit drinking and go to meetings. It may be another 12-Step zealot who tells him he will have a “spiritual awakening” and overcome his problems if he “works” the program. It may even be an atheist or agnostic or a naive A.A. individual, who tells him he simply needs to go through some exercises, change his behavior, and get rid of his self-centeredness—and thereby have a “personality change.” He is almost certain to meet an anti-God, irreligious person who tells him he must get rid of all his religious trappings and training and either rely on himself or invent some “higher power” of his own conception. He may encounter a Christian minority who insist that A.A. is of the devil, that believers must not go there, and that the Bible forbids such fellowshipping. He may also encounter those who tell him all the “terrible” practices and beliefs of the early AAs which allegedly tainted the entire fellowship then and now. And on and on.
All this while he is facing criminal charges, debt or bankruptcy, divorce or abandonment, loss of job or reputation, lectures from his family, custody battles over his kids, and some of the most unexpected results of DT’s, seizures, and withdrawal that he could ever have imagined. And he may be “enjoying” or “enduring” these situations in a jail or prison or mental ward.
On top of that, today’s scene is peppered with treatment programs, pastoral counselors, secular counseling programs, required abstinence programs, interventions, detox centers, assessments, lack of funds, lack of insurance, lack of support, and probably joblessness.
He faces these—often alone—with brain damage, fear, bewilderment, confusion, anxiety, shame, guilt, condemnation, despair, and hopelessness.
This person is one sick, sad, hurting, despondent “sinner.”
And he is heavily pounded with dogmatic insistence that his problems are of his own making. Bottles, they tell him, were only a symbol. He has been playing God and discovered he wasn’t. One seer wrote that his real problem was “not-god-ness.” Yet nothing seems to work out.
It is not uncommon for him to take his own life, overdose and threaten it, or ponder suicide.
Almost all of us who have attended A.A., N.A., or recovery meetings have heard these details or even told them ourselves over and over and over. In fact, the funnier they are, the more popular they are. The more horrid the events, the more engaging they are to the audience.
Is There a Solution?
Stay tuned for the next article. Learn the varied ways in which the sick newcomer is told he can “recover,” but never get well. Learn how this approach differs from earlier ones in the 1800’s, early 1900’s, and earliest A.A. days. Learn how God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible became a part of the picture.
Gloria Deo
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Dick B. Channel on YouTube is Up and Running
This Dick B. Channel covers Alcoholics Anonymous History and the Christian Recovery Movement.
It will feature many many many brief program broadcasts on all of the subject matter, will use the Dick B. pen name, and will not feature a photo of Dick B.
Many books and other historical materials will be featured on the screen
Here is the URL address for the first of the nine videos (and the other eight can be found through that URL address):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUNbw6vZG5w
It will feature many many many brief program broadcasts on all of the subject matter, will use the Dick B. pen name, and will not feature a photo of Dick B.
Many books and other historical materials will be featured on the screen
Here is the URL address for the first of the nine videos (and the other eight can be found through that URL address):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUNbw6vZG5w
The Dick B. YouTube Channel on A.A. History and Christian Recovery
The Dick B. YouTube Channel to Broadcast Soon
The Dick B. YouTube Channel has been established to enable wide broadcasting of short talks on all phases of Alcoholics Anonymous History and the Christian Recovery Movement. It will be broadcasting shortly.
Dick B. dickb@dickb.com
Posted by Dick B.
The Dick B. YouTube Channel has been established to enable wide broadcasting of short talks on all phases of Alcoholics Anonymous History and the Christian Recovery Movement. It will be broadcasting shortly.
Dick B. dickb@dickb.com
Posted by Dick B.
Monday, May 9, 2011
The Intent of the Dick B. Witness - Psalm 118:17
Ps 118:17 (NJB):
I shall not die, I shall live to recount the great deeds of Yahweh.
And this verse henceforth represents the intent of the Dick B. research, publications, activities, and witness
I shall not die, I shall live to recount the great deeds of Yahweh.
And this verse henceforth represents the intent of the Dick B. research, publications, activities, and witness
Dr. Bob's Wife Anne, Her Journal, and 3 New Articles
Several years ago, Dick B. published the third edition of Anne Smith's Journal 1933-1939: A.A.'s Principles of Success . (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 1998.
This landmark title was written primarily to report and organize the tremendous amount of early A.A. material that Dr. Bob's wife, Anne Ripley Smith, gathered, reported, and taught to early AAs between 1933 and 1939. It dealt with the Bible, biblical verses, Christian books, Oxford Group literature, life-changing books, a virtual preparation for material that ultimately became Bill Wilson's Twelve Steps, and many practical suggestions for AAs, their families, and their kids.
The sad fact is that the original manuscript was stached away at General Services Archives in New York and just never published or discussed in A.A.'s own literature. Finally, years later, I found out about the manuscript from Dr. Bob's daughter, Sue Smith Windows, forwarded to the Trustees Archives Committee a request for the manuscript, received it, and published the book which now is out in its third edition. All editions were heartily endorsed by Dr. Bob's two children--Sue Smith Windows and Robert R. Smith, as well as by author Mel B.
"Anne Smith's Journal" can still be seen described, as well as purchased, primarily from my own websites www.dickb.com/annesm.shtml and from Amazon.com as well as other book purveyors.
Still, there has been a dearth of factual correctness and adequate understanding of A.A.'s Christian, biblical, and Step roots because almost all scholars, writers, and 12 Steppers themselves have never read Anne Smith's Journal. And this is to urge that they do.
Recently, to deal with erroneous statements about A.A. by some of its criticis--atheists, psychologists, historians, religious, and AAs themselves--I wrote three contemporary articles on some major remarks by and contributions on A.A. subjects by Anne Smith. These can all be read on our blogs, are recommended here, and can be found on www.mauihistorian.blogspot.com and www.internationalchristianrecoverycoalition.blogspot.com.
Here are the subjects covered:
1. Dr. Bob's Wife Anne, Her Journal, and the Gift of the Holy Spirit.
2. Dr. Bob's Wife Anne, Her Journal, and Jesus Christ.
3. Dr. Bob's Wife Anne, Her Journal, and the Language of Subsequent 12 Steps
dickb@dickb.com.
This landmark title was written primarily to report and organize the tremendous amount of early A.A. material that Dr. Bob's wife, Anne Ripley Smith, gathered, reported, and taught to early AAs between 1933 and 1939. It dealt with the Bible, biblical verses, Christian books, Oxford Group literature, life-changing books, a virtual preparation for material that ultimately became Bill Wilson's Twelve Steps, and many practical suggestions for AAs, their families, and their kids.
The sad fact is that the original manuscript was stached away at General Services Archives in New York and just never published or discussed in A.A.'s own literature. Finally, years later, I found out about the manuscript from Dr. Bob's daughter, Sue Smith Windows, forwarded to the Trustees Archives Committee a request for the manuscript, received it, and published the book which now is out in its third edition. All editions were heartily endorsed by Dr. Bob's two children--Sue Smith Windows and Robert R. Smith, as well as by author Mel B.
"Anne Smith's Journal" can still be seen described, as well as purchased, primarily from my own websites www.dickb.com/annesm.shtml and from Amazon.com as well as other book purveyors.
Still, there has been a dearth of factual correctness and adequate understanding of A.A.'s Christian, biblical, and Step roots because almost all scholars, writers, and 12 Steppers themselves have never read Anne Smith's Journal. And this is to urge that they do.
Recently, to deal with erroneous statements about A.A. by some of its criticis--atheists, psychologists, historians, religious, and AAs themselves--I wrote three contemporary articles on some major remarks by and contributions on A.A. subjects by Anne Smith. These can all be read on our blogs, are recommended here, and can be found on www.mauihistorian.blogspot.com and www.internationalchristianrecoverycoalition.blogspot.com.
Here are the subjects covered:
1. Dr. Bob's Wife Anne, Her Journal, and the Gift of the Holy Spirit.
2. Dr. Bob's Wife Anne, Her Journal, and Jesus Christ.
3. Dr. Bob's Wife Anne, Her Journal, and the Language of Subsequent 12 Steps
dickb@dickb.com.
The Important 29 Volume Dick B. Christian Recovery Reference Set - Discounted Today
The Importance of
the 29-Volume “Dick B. Christian Recovery Reference Set”
and
How You Can Acquire the Full 29-Volume Set at a Large Discount Right Now
First, here are the 29 volumes comprising “The Dick B. Christian Recovery Reference Set”:
A New Way In $19.95
A New Way Out $19.95
Anne Smith's Journal, 1933-1939 $22.95
By the Power of God $23.95 Cured!: Proven Help for Alcoholics and Addicts $23.95
Dr. Bob and His Library $22.95
Dr. Bob of Alcoholics Anonymous $24.95
GOD and Alcoholism $21.95
Good Morning! $22.95 Henrietta B. Seiberling: Ohio's Lady with a Cause $20.95
Introduction to the Sources and Founding of Alcoholics Anonymous $22.95
Making Known the Biblical History and Roots of Alcoholics Anonymous $24.95
New Light on Alcoholism $24.95
Real Twelve Step Fellowship History $23.95
That Amazing Grace $22.95
The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous $23.95
The Books Early AAs Read for Spiritual Growth $21.95
The Conversion of Bill W. $23.95
The First Nationwide A.A. History Conference, Phoenix, Arizona (Feb. '03) $22.95
The Golden Text of A.A. $20.95
The Good Book and The Big Book: A.A.'s Roots in the Bible $23.95
The Good Book-Big Book Guidebook $22.95
The James Club and The Original A.A. Program’s Absolute Essentials $23.95
The Oxford Group & Alcoholics Anonymous $23.95 Turning Point: A History of Early A.A.'s Spiritual Roots and Successes $29.95
Twelve Steps for YOU $21.95
Utilizing Early A.A.'s Spiritual Roots for Recovery Today $20.95
When Early AAs Were Cured. And Why $23.95
Why Early A.A. Succeeded $23.95
More information on each title can be found on this Web page: www.dickb.com/titles.shtml
Second, the retail/list price of the 29 volumes purchased separately, with an average price of $23.19 per book, is:
$672.55
We are offering the entire, 29-volume "Dick B. Christian Recovery Reference Set" at 57% off :
$289.00
(plus $30.00 Shipping & Handling)**
You save more than $383.00 dollars off the total retail/list price of $672.55 (if the 29 volumes were purchased separately).
** Please note: The $30.00 Shipping & Handling for the "Dick B. Christian Recovery Reference Set" only applies within the continental United States. For Shipping & Handling for areas outside the continental U.S., please contact Dick B. via email at DickB@DickB.com for details.
Order “The Dick B. Christian Recovery Reference Set” Now and Save!
To learn more about this special offer, and/or to acquire the set using PayPal, or a (MasterCard or VISA) credit card or debit card, please go to:
Major Christian Recovery Resource #2
The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide, 3rd ed. (2010)
in the center column of the front page of the www.DickB.com Web site and use the “Donate” button to make your secure online payment.
To use other forms of payment, or if you still have questions, please phone Ken B. at 1-808-276-4945 and provide your name, shipping and billing address, phone, email, credit card number and expiration date.
the 29-Volume “Dick B. Christian Recovery Reference Set”
and
How You Can Acquire the Full 29-Volume Set at a Large Discount Right Now
First, here are the 29 volumes comprising “The Dick B. Christian Recovery Reference Set”:
A New Way In $19.95
A New Way Out $19.95
Anne Smith's Journal, 1933-1939 $22.95
By the Power of God $23.95 Cured!: Proven Help for Alcoholics and Addicts $23.95
Dr. Bob and His Library $22.95
Dr. Bob of Alcoholics Anonymous $24.95
GOD and Alcoholism $21.95
Good Morning! $22.95 Henrietta B. Seiberling: Ohio's Lady with a Cause $20.95
Introduction to the Sources and Founding of Alcoholics Anonymous $22.95
Making Known the Biblical History and Roots of Alcoholics Anonymous $24.95
New Light on Alcoholism $24.95
Real Twelve Step Fellowship History $23.95
That Amazing Grace $22.95
The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous $23.95
The Books Early AAs Read for Spiritual Growth $21.95
The Conversion of Bill W. $23.95
The First Nationwide A.A. History Conference, Phoenix, Arizona (Feb. '03) $22.95
The Golden Text of A.A. $20.95
The Good Book and The Big Book: A.A.'s Roots in the Bible $23.95
The Good Book-Big Book Guidebook $22.95
The James Club and The Original A.A. Program’s Absolute Essentials $23.95
The Oxford Group & Alcoholics Anonymous $23.95 Turning Point: A History of Early A.A.'s Spiritual Roots and Successes $29.95
Twelve Steps for YOU $21.95
Utilizing Early A.A.'s Spiritual Roots for Recovery Today $20.95
When Early AAs Were Cured. And Why $23.95
Why Early A.A. Succeeded $23.95
More information on each title can be found on this Web page: www.dickb.com/titles.shtml
Second, the retail/list price of the 29 volumes purchased separately, with an average price of $23.19 per book, is:
$672.55
We are offering the entire, 29-volume "Dick B. Christian Recovery Reference Set" at 57% off :
$289.00
(plus $30.00 Shipping & Handling)**
You save more than $383.00 dollars off the total retail/list price of $672.55 (if the 29 volumes were purchased separately).
** Please note: The $30.00 Shipping & Handling for the "Dick B. Christian Recovery Reference Set" only applies within the continental United States. For Shipping & Handling for areas outside the continental U.S., please contact Dick B. via email at DickB@DickB.com for details.
Order “The Dick B. Christian Recovery Reference Set” Now and Save!
To learn more about this special offer, and/or to acquire the set using PayPal, or a (MasterCard or VISA) credit card or debit card, please go to:
Major Christian Recovery Resource #2
The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide, 3rd ed. (2010)
in the center column of the front page of the www.DickB.com Web site and use the “Donate” button to make your secure online payment.
To use other forms of payment, or if you still have questions, please phone Ken B. at 1-808-276-4945 and provide your name, shipping and billing address, phone, email, credit card number and expiration date.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
7 States Need to Be Represented by Participants
Though we have several prospects pending, we would still like to have International Christian Recovery Coalition participants from Alaska, North Dakota, South Dakota, West Virginia, New Mexico, Wyoming, and Rhode Island. As soon as the 50 states are filled, we will publish the names, cities, and states to enable communication among folks who are or want to be in fellowship. No cost to be listed.
Again:
Alaska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, West Virginia, and Wyoming
There is no cost for becoming a participant. We suggest you read the mission statement on www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com. Then, if satisfactory, provide us with a listing like the following:
"John Doe, Recovered Christian AA, Cody, Wyoming"
Dick B., Executive Director. Send listing to dickb@dickb.com
Again:
Alaska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, West Virginia, and Wyoming
There is no cost for becoming a participant. We suggest you read the mission statement on www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com. Then, if satisfactory, provide us with a listing like the following:
"John Doe, Recovered Christian AA, Cody, Wyoming"
Dick B., Executive Director. Send listing to dickb@dickb.com
Iowa Man Becomes Christian Coalition Friend
There seem to be at least one a day joining the International Christian Recovery Coalition as participants www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com. Today, the following Iowa man became a particpant:
John Williams, recovered AA believer, Winthrop, Iowa 50682
475, 4th st. N.
319 935 3710
John Williams, recovered AA believer, Winthrop, Iowa 50682
475, 4th st. N.
319 935 3710
28 Christian Recovery Resource Centers and Individuals Established Since 1/1/2011
International Christian Recovery Coalition is pleased to announce that 28 individuals or centers have been established as Christian Recovery Resource Centers and Persons Worldwide since the project began on January 1, 2011.
Richard G. Burns, Executive Director, www.ChristianRecoveryResourceCenters.com
Richard G. Burns, Executive Director, www.ChristianRecoveryResourceCenters.com
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Montana Woman Becomes Latest Participant in International Christian Recovery Coalition
We are now drawing near to having coalition participants in each of the 50 states as well as a number of other countries. The latest participant in the International Christian Recovery Coalition (www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com) is
ASEREHT HELENA GRIFFIN
SHEPHERDS PASTURES AND SEED FARMS
1701 MONTANA AVE
BLACK EAGLE MONTANA ,
59414
aserehtgriffin@yahoo.com
(406)231-5498
ASEREHT HELENA GRIFFIN
SHEPHERDS PASTURES AND SEED FARMS
1701 MONTANA AVE
BLACK EAGLE MONTANA ,
59414
aserehtgriffin@yahoo.com
(406)231-5498
Dr. Bob's Wife Anne, Her Journal, and the Later 12 Steps
Dr. Bob’s Wife Anne Smith, Early AAs, and Subsequent 12 Step Language
By Dick B.
© 2011 Anonymous. All rights reserved
A few contemporary writers, biographers, and historians have done their best to distance A.A., AAs, and the fellowship newcomers from the Bible, God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Some Christian critics load their writings with verses from the Bible and dire warnings to AAs and others never to darken the doors of an A.A. room.. But seldom have they taken the time to learn, and rarely to quote, the clear-cut beliefs of the early AAs in the Creator, His Son Jesus Christ, the Bible, and even the Holy Spirit. Indeed, it is sad to see how quickly and emphatically the critics claim that the early A.A. pioneers did not believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, that they didn’t emphasize Jesus Christ and Him crucified, and that they did not emphasize a relationship with Jesus Christ.
There are many pieces of evidence which prove how wrong they are.
We have written two previous articles on the Anne Smith influence on A.A. And in that respect, we documented how frequently Anne mentioned and taught about the Holy Spirit and mentioned and taught about Jesus Christ. We know very specifically what she mentioned and taught because it is set forth in her journal which we covered in detail in Anne Smith’s Journal 1933-1939 (www.dickb.com/annesm.shtml). We provided the pages so that you could find them too.
And what do we know about when and where Anne shared from the Bible and from her journal?
First, Akron A.A. old-timer John Reese specifically stated to A.A. historian Dennis Cassidy and also put in writing this statement which was provided to me in a telephone conversation I had with Dennis on September 5, 1992. John specifically said to Dennis:
Before one of these meetings [in Dr. Bob’s Home], Anne used to pull out a little book [the spiritual journal she kept and taught from during the period 1933-193] and quote from it. We would discuss it. Then we would see what Anne would suggest from it for our discussion [Anne Smith’s Journal, 110]
Second, Anne’s children, Robert R. Smith and Sue Smith Windows, had even more to say in their autobiography, Children of the Healer: The Story of Dr. Bob’s Kids (Center City, MN: Hazelden, 1992). Anne’s daughter Sue said:
I’ve still got Mom’s notebook from the Oxford Group meetings. I typed up a lot of it myself for my typing practice. If you read it, you’d see why Bill W. called her “the Mother of A.A.,” and what I mean about mom being the founder of Al-Anon. It’s all there—share with people, don’t preach, don’t argue, don’t talk up or down to people, share in terms of your own experience, be willing to live a day at a time, an hour at a time, surrender, pray for guidance, and have a daily meditation time. She was a very intelligent person, and she knew what she was putting down in her notes. Lois and Bill took this notebook with them one time after they read it [p. 29]
[When Bill stayed with the Smiths at their home in the Summer of 1935] There wasn’t any program then. The restitution idea was one of the things he got from the Oxford Group. Mom’s notebook shows how much of A.A. came from there—restitution, surrendering, and so forth. Later on, they did the surrendering, for the new ones, right upstairs in Dad’s room where it would be more private. And this was way before the Twelve Steps were ever written down [p. 41]
Bill was the writer, so he’s been remembered. But I think the only thing Bill brought to Akron that Dad hadn’t already thought of was the service part of the program. That was the part Dad was missing. It took both of them to do it, and that’s being forgotten [p. 83]
And I have chosen in this third article to address the contention of some critics that AAs just got their Big Book material from spiritualism, from freemasonry, from Emmet Fox and the New Thought movement, as well as from a lay therapist who died drunk. But the key to the roots comes from two very clear facts: (1) Dr. Bob said that he didn’t write the Steps or have anything to do with the writing of them, but that he believed the basic ideas came from their studies and effort in the Bible. (2) Bill frequently mentioned how Anne would read the Bible and other matter to Bob and Bill during the summer of 1935.
I have found and read substantial evidence that some of the critics never researched Akron A.A., never mentioned the role of Dr. Bob’s wife Anne Ripley Smith in the founding of A.A., and never reviewed the strong evidence of what AAs did in the early Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” led primarily by Dr. Bob and his wife Anne Ripley Smith. We may go into much of the other evidence in future articles. But we felt it important to start with a woman whom A.A. cofounder Bill W. called the “Mother of A.A.”—Anne Smith, who was teacher, evangelist, nurse, housekeeper, counselor, and Bible reader for the early Akron AAs. And, though we don’t know all that Anne shared with early AAs and their families about God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Bible, Oxford Group ideas, and language in her spiritual journal, we do know what she wrote down in, and taught from, her own personal journal. Particularly about what became 12 Step ideas when Bill wrote the Big Book.
What Anne recorded in her journal and shared with early AAs, their wives, and families. And the striking resemblance between Anne’s words and phrases and the later ideas Bill Wilson incorporated into the Twelve Steps in the First Edition of the Big Book in 1939.
The references following the quotes below are to the pages in Dick B., Anne Smith’s Journal 1933-1939: A.A.’s Principles of Success, 3rd ed. (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 1998):
[Step One Language—our lives had become unmanageable]: Anne wrote: “What do you do when you pray? O Lord manage me, for I cannot manage myself. . . . Surrender is a simple act of will. What do we surrender? Our life. When? At a certain definite moment. How? Oh God, manage me because I cannot manage my self” [p. 20]
[Step Two Language—a power greater than ourselves]: Anne wrote: “Paul speaks of a wish toward good, but power to carry it out is lacking. A stronger power than his was needed. God provided that power through Christ” [p. 21]
[Step Three Language—decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him]: Anne wrote: “Try to bring a person to a decision to ‘surrender as much of himself as he knows to as much of God as he knows. . . . Surrender is a complete handing over of our wills to God, a reckless abandon of ourselves, all that we have, all that we think that we are, everything we hold dear, to God to do what he likes with. . . . putting God’s will ahead of everything” [pp. 25-29]
[Step Four Language—made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. . . . searched out the flaws in our makeup. . . . where had we been selfish, dishonest, self-seeking, dishonest. . . . where were we to blame?. . . Whom had we hurt? . . . Where were we at fault?]: Anne wrote: “Why are people so afraid to face their deepest problems? Because they think there is no answer. When they learn there is one, they will believe it can work out for them, and they will really be honest about themselves. . . . It is absolutely necessary to face people with the moral test. Seeing one’s self as God sees one, brings hatred out of sin. It’s not self-examination but God’s examination. . . . Something wrong in me. Unless I can crystallize the criticism. I had better look for mote in my eye. . . . Check your thoughts by the four standards of Christ. Make the moral test. Am I ready to write them down and willing? . . . Resentments to be faced and set right. Restitution to be made. . . . Absolute honesty demands that we no longer wear a mask. . . . Fears—of inefficiency, incompetence, failing powers of application and success. . . of infection, of serious illness, or a helpless and hopeless old age, and of your secret self . . . Telling a lie. . . . Share dishonesty” [pp. 29-36]
[Step Five Language—admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs] :Anne wrote: “Confess your faults one to another. Sharing is having your life at God’s disposal. . . keep free of mental reservation. . . . you do not tell everybody everything every time but you are ready to tell anybody anything at any time under guidance. There is nothing in our lives that we are not willing to share. . . Share specifically, uncomfortably so. . . . I must share to be honest with God, myself & others. . . Inadequate sharing. We have not fully shared with someone else. Egoism or pride is one of the greatest of our enemies” [pp. 36-40]
[Step Six Language—were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character] Anne wrote: “Obedience is one of the key-words of the Christian life. Refusal to obey blocks the channel, and prevents further word from God. Barriers to a full surrender. Is there anything I won’t give up? Is there any apology I won’t make? Be willing to ask God where I am failing and to admit to sin. The next step is the Cross. Get them to the place where they appropriate it. Get them to face up to the thing that is their cross in life. . . . It is not enough to surrender sin, but we must also claim the victory of the resurrection life. It is God that does it. Nothing you can do is of any use. Is there anything in us which blocks God’s work, it matters to God” [pp. 42-44]
[Step Seven Language—Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings] Anne Wrote: “Conversion. This is the turning to God, the decision, the surrender. . . . A maximum experience of Jesus Christ leads to a radical change in personal life, bringing about a selfless relationship to people about one. . . . God is willing to take my past spiritual experience and weld it in a new spiritual experience. . . . Christ only can remove them and replace with a new quality of life. . . . I’m wrong Father. You know better than I, you have more wisdom, show me the way” [pp. 45-47]
[Steps Eight and Nine Language—(8) made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all (9) made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others]. Anne wrote: “Any restitution I won’t make? . . . Resentments to be faced and made right. . . . Restitution to be made. . . . Help them make a list of things. . . . God can make me willing in the day of His power. Joy comes in being committed right to the very end. Attempt great things of God, and see the daily victories of the living God” [p. 48]
[Step Ten Language—Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it] Anne wrote: Cotinuance. Stay with the newly surrendered person until he grows up. . . . Is there some relationship I am content to leave where it is? . . . Be willing to ask God where I am failing and to admit sin. . . . Willingness to maintain an antiseptic attitude with regard to personal situations while in the process of redemption. . . . Let your waking thought be surrender a 100% daily surrender. . . . One of the weaknesses of what may be termed the “Old Evangelism” of the mass type was the lack of continuance. It seemed to be taken for granted that a surrendered person would naturally be able to continue what he had begun and would henceforth know of himself what the steps of strengthening should be” [pp.49-53]
Step Eleven Language—Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out] Anne wrote: “1. Prayer. Why not answered? Until we are ready to fulfill the conditions, the deepest wishes of our heart cannot be realized. . . Intercessory prayer—pray that the Spirit may tell you what to pray for. . . . A way to find God’s will not to change it. . . Conceive God as Father and it is not unnatural to lay before Him our hopes and needs—interest—fears. . . Petitionary prayers. . . These we submit not because we distrust His goodness or desire to bend His will but because He is our Friend. . . Prayer for others to hold them before God. . . Correct me—direct—praise—adoration and thanksgiving. 2. Guidance. Guidance is the principle of the Bible. . . . The Sons of God are those who are guided by the Spirit of God. 3. Listening. Your job is to be a good signal man and know the difference between red and green lights. 4. Bible study and reading. 5. Quiet Time. Attentive prayer and being willng to act immediately. Stillness and surrender of all known sins. . . . The Devil fighting to keep you for his own. The answer to this feeling is prayer and a new surrender. Lean on Christ, not on yourself” [pp. 53-63]
Step Twelve Language—Having had a spiritual experience [later changed by Bill to “awakening”] as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs]. Anne wrote: [Experience] “A general experience of God is the first essential, the beginning. We can’t give away what we haven’t got. We must have a genuine contact with God in our present experience. The only effort we need to put forth is that of daily surrender and daily contact with Christ. We find release not by our own efforts but by what Christ does for us and in us when we open every area of our lives to him. . . Christianity is an “obtainment” not an attainment and the more we obtain, the more we see there is to obtain. When Paul gave up trying to be good and surrendered his life fully to the Lord, then came peace, power and joy. [Carrying the Message] Get to a point of contact. Diagnose the person’s real difficulty. Adapt the truth to the hearer’s need. Bring the person face to face with Christ. Show the way out of the special difficulty. Bring the person finally to the point of decision and action. [Practice these principles] Faith without works is dead. . . . Jesus continually puts the emphasis on faith. . . . If you have given your life to God, trust Him and go ahead with that. . . . We must keep before us the maximum perspective of our task as Christians. . . . You must be willing to lay down alongside another’s [life] perhaps for years. . . . How can we do the maximum job that God will have us do? Christ’s basic principle, which he expressed in saying that we must love even the very least of them, did not arise from his teaching, neither did it come from his practice. It grew out of the fact that he had entered into the consciousness of God. . . Do we condemn, condone, or construct? Claim from God humility, patience, courage, faith and love. . . . Never let your zeal flag: maintain the spiritual glow [64-79]
And as the standard for all these points, Anne spoke of the Bible. She wrote:
“Let all your reading be guided. . . . Of course the Bible ought to be the main Source Book of all. No day ought to pass without reading it. . . . Rather have a “Quiet Time” if possible before meeting them [occasions which lead one into temptation] and go with a prayer in your heart. Lean on God and not on yourself. [pp. 60-61]
Gloria Deo
By Dick B.
© 2011 Anonymous. All rights reserved
A few contemporary writers, biographers, and historians have done their best to distance A.A., AAs, and the fellowship newcomers from the Bible, God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Some Christian critics load their writings with verses from the Bible and dire warnings to AAs and others never to darken the doors of an A.A. room.. But seldom have they taken the time to learn, and rarely to quote, the clear-cut beliefs of the early AAs in the Creator, His Son Jesus Christ, the Bible, and even the Holy Spirit. Indeed, it is sad to see how quickly and emphatically the critics claim that the early A.A. pioneers did not believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, that they didn’t emphasize Jesus Christ and Him crucified, and that they did not emphasize a relationship with Jesus Christ.
There are many pieces of evidence which prove how wrong they are.
We have written two previous articles on the Anne Smith influence on A.A. And in that respect, we documented how frequently Anne mentioned and taught about the Holy Spirit and mentioned and taught about Jesus Christ. We know very specifically what she mentioned and taught because it is set forth in her journal which we covered in detail in Anne Smith’s Journal 1933-1939 (www.dickb.com/annesm.shtml). We provided the pages so that you could find them too.
And what do we know about when and where Anne shared from the Bible and from her journal?
First, Akron A.A. old-timer John Reese specifically stated to A.A. historian Dennis Cassidy and also put in writing this statement which was provided to me in a telephone conversation I had with Dennis on September 5, 1992. John specifically said to Dennis:
Before one of these meetings [in Dr. Bob’s Home], Anne used to pull out a little book [the spiritual journal she kept and taught from during the period 1933-193] and quote from it. We would discuss it. Then we would see what Anne would suggest from it for our discussion [Anne Smith’s Journal, 110]
Second, Anne’s children, Robert R. Smith and Sue Smith Windows, had even more to say in their autobiography, Children of the Healer: The Story of Dr. Bob’s Kids (Center City, MN: Hazelden, 1992). Anne’s daughter Sue said:
I’ve still got Mom’s notebook from the Oxford Group meetings. I typed up a lot of it myself for my typing practice. If you read it, you’d see why Bill W. called her “the Mother of A.A.,” and what I mean about mom being the founder of Al-Anon. It’s all there—share with people, don’t preach, don’t argue, don’t talk up or down to people, share in terms of your own experience, be willing to live a day at a time, an hour at a time, surrender, pray for guidance, and have a daily meditation time. She was a very intelligent person, and she knew what she was putting down in her notes. Lois and Bill took this notebook with them one time after they read it [p. 29]
[When Bill stayed with the Smiths at their home in the Summer of 1935] There wasn’t any program then. The restitution idea was one of the things he got from the Oxford Group. Mom’s notebook shows how much of A.A. came from there—restitution, surrendering, and so forth. Later on, they did the surrendering, for the new ones, right upstairs in Dad’s room where it would be more private. And this was way before the Twelve Steps were ever written down [p. 41]
Bill was the writer, so he’s been remembered. But I think the only thing Bill brought to Akron that Dad hadn’t already thought of was the service part of the program. That was the part Dad was missing. It took both of them to do it, and that’s being forgotten [p. 83]
And I have chosen in this third article to address the contention of some critics that AAs just got their Big Book material from spiritualism, from freemasonry, from Emmet Fox and the New Thought movement, as well as from a lay therapist who died drunk. But the key to the roots comes from two very clear facts: (1) Dr. Bob said that he didn’t write the Steps or have anything to do with the writing of them, but that he believed the basic ideas came from their studies and effort in the Bible. (2) Bill frequently mentioned how Anne would read the Bible and other matter to Bob and Bill during the summer of 1935.
I have found and read substantial evidence that some of the critics never researched Akron A.A., never mentioned the role of Dr. Bob’s wife Anne Ripley Smith in the founding of A.A., and never reviewed the strong evidence of what AAs did in the early Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” led primarily by Dr. Bob and his wife Anne Ripley Smith. We may go into much of the other evidence in future articles. But we felt it important to start with a woman whom A.A. cofounder Bill W. called the “Mother of A.A.”—Anne Smith, who was teacher, evangelist, nurse, housekeeper, counselor, and Bible reader for the early Akron AAs. And, though we don’t know all that Anne shared with early AAs and their families about God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Bible, Oxford Group ideas, and language in her spiritual journal, we do know what she wrote down in, and taught from, her own personal journal. Particularly about what became 12 Step ideas when Bill wrote the Big Book.
What Anne recorded in her journal and shared with early AAs, their wives, and families. And the striking resemblance between Anne’s words and phrases and the later ideas Bill Wilson incorporated into the Twelve Steps in the First Edition of the Big Book in 1939.
The references following the quotes below are to the pages in Dick B., Anne Smith’s Journal 1933-1939: A.A.’s Principles of Success, 3rd ed. (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 1998):
[Step One Language—our lives had become unmanageable]: Anne wrote: “What do you do when you pray? O Lord manage me, for I cannot manage myself. . . . Surrender is a simple act of will. What do we surrender? Our life. When? At a certain definite moment. How? Oh God, manage me because I cannot manage my self” [p. 20]
[Step Two Language—a power greater than ourselves]: Anne wrote: “Paul speaks of a wish toward good, but power to carry it out is lacking. A stronger power than his was needed. God provided that power through Christ” [p. 21]
[Step Three Language—decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him]: Anne wrote: “Try to bring a person to a decision to ‘surrender as much of himself as he knows to as much of God as he knows. . . . Surrender is a complete handing over of our wills to God, a reckless abandon of ourselves, all that we have, all that we think that we are, everything we hold dear, to God to do what he likes with. . . . putting God’s will ahead of everything” [pp. 25-29]
[Step Four Language—made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. . . . searched out the flaws in our makeup. . . . where had we been selfish, dishonest, self-seeking, dishonest. . . . where were we to blame?. . . Whom had we hurt? . . . Where were we at fault?]: Anne wrote: “Why are people so afraid to face their deepest problems? Because they think there is no answer. When they learn there is one, they will believe it can work out for them, and they will really be honest about themselves. . . . It is absolutely necessary to face people with the moral test. Seeing one’s self as God sees one, brings hatred out of sin. It’s not self-examination but God’s examination. . . . Something wrong in me. Unless I can crystallize the criticism. I had better look for mote in my eye. . . . Check your thoughts by the four standards of Christ. Make the moral test. Am I ready to write them down and willing? . . . Resentments to be faced and set right. Restitution to be made. . . . Absolute honesty demands that we no longer wear a mask. . . . Fears—of inefficiency, incompetence, failing powers of application and success. . . of infection, of serious illness, or a helpless and hopeless old age, and of your secret self . . . Telling a lie. . . . Share dishonesty” [pp. 29-36]
[Step Five Language—admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs] :Anne wrote: “Confess your faults one to another. Sharing is having your life at God’s disposal. . . keep free of mental reservation. . . . you do not tell everybody everything every time but you are ready to tell anybody anything at any time under guidance. There is nothing in our lives that we are not willing to share. . . Share specifically, uncomfortably so. . . . I must share to be honest with God, myself & others. . . Inadequate sharing. We have not fully shared with someone else. Egoism or pride is one of the greatest of our enemies” [pp. 36-40]
[Step Six Language—were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character] Anne wrote: “Obedience is one of the key-words of the Christian life. Refusal to obey blocks the channel, and prevents further word from God. Barriers to a full surrender. Is there anything I won’t give up? Is there any apology I won’t make? Be willing to ask God where I am failing and to admit to sin. The next step is the Cross. Get them to the place where they appropriate it. Get them to face up to the thing that is their cross in life. . . . It is not enough to surrender sin, but we must also claim the victory of the resurrection life. It is God that does it. Nothing you can do is of any use. Is there anything in us which blocks God’s work, it matters to God” [pp. 42-44]
[Step Seven Language—Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings] Anne Wrote: “Conversion. This is the turning to God, the decision, the surrender. . . . A maximum experience of Jesus Christ leads to a radical change in personal life, bringing about a selfless relationship to people about one. . . . God is willing to take my past spiritual experience and weld it in a new spiritual experience. . . . Christ only can remove them and replace with a new quality of life. . . . I’m wrong Father. You know better than I, you have more wisdom, show me the way” [pp. 45-47]
[Steps Eight and Nine Language—(8) made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all (9) made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others]. Anne wrote: “Any restitution I won’t make? . . . Resentments to be faced and made right. . . . Restitution to be made. . . . Help them make a list of things. . . . God can make me willing in the day of His power. Joy comes in being committed right to the very end. Attempt great things of God, and see the daily victories of the living God” [p. 48]
[Step Ten Language—Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it] Anne wrote: Cotinuance. Stay with the newly surrendered person until he grows up. . . . Is there some relationship I am content to leave where it is? . . . Be willing to ask God where I am failing and to admit sin. . . . Willingness to maintain an antiseptic attitude with regard to personal situations while in the process of redemption. . . . Let your waking thought be surrender a 100% daily surrender. . . . One of the weaknesses of what may be termed the “Old Evangelism” of the mass type was the lack of continuance. It seemed to be taken for granted that a surrendered person would naturally be able to continue what he had begun and would henceforth know of himself what the steps of strengthening should be” [pp.49-53]
Step Eleven Language—Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out] Anne wrote: “1. Prayer. Why not answered? Until we are ready to fulfill the conditions, the deepest wishes of our heart cannot be realized. . . Intercessory prayer—pray that the Spirit may tell you what to pray for. . . . A way to find God’s will not to change it. . . Conceive God as Father and it is not unnatural to lay before Him our hopes and needs—interest—fears. . . Petitionary prayers. . . These we submit not because we distrust His goodness or desire to bend His will but because He is our Friend. . . Prayer for others to hold them before God. . . Correct me—direct—praise—adoration and thanksgiving. 2. Guidance. Guidance is the principle of the Bible. . . . The Sons of God are those who are guided by the Spirit of God. 3. Listening. Your job is to be a good signal man and know the difference between red and green lights. 4. Bible study and reading. 5. Quiet Time. Attentive prayer and being willng to act immediately. Stillness and surrender of all known sins. . . . The Devil fighting to keep you for his own. The answer to this feeling is prayer and a new surrender. Lean on Christ, not on yourself” [pp. 53-63]
Step Twelve Language—Having had a spiritual experience [later changed by Bill to “awakening”] as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs]. Anne wrote: [Experience] “A general experience of God is the first essential, the beginning. We can’t give away what we haven’t got. We must have a genuine contact with God in our present experience. The only effort we need to put forth is that of daily surrender and daily contact with Christ. We find release not by our own efforts but by what Christ does for us and in us when we open every area of our lives to him. . . Christianity is an “obtainment” not an attainment and the more we obtain, the more we see there is to obtain. When Paul gave up trying to be good and surrendered his life fully to the Lord, then came peace, power and joy. [Carrying the Message] Get to a point of contact. Diagnose the person’s real difficulty. Adapt the truth to the hearer’s need. Bring the person face to face with Christ. Show the way out of the special difficulty. Bring the person finally to the point of decision and action. [Practice these principles] Faith without works is dead. . . . Jesus continually puts the emphasis on faith. . . . If you have given your life to God, trust Him and go ahead with that. . . . We must keep before us the maximum perspective of our task as Christians. . . . You must be willing to lay down alongside another’s [life] perhaps for years. . . . How can we do the maximum job that God will have us do? Christ’s basic principle, which he expressed in saying that we must love even the very least of them, did not arise from his teaching, neither did it come from his practice. It grew out of the fact that he had entered into the consciousness of God. . . Do we condemn, condone, or construct? Claim from God humility, patience, courage, faith and love. . . . Never let your zeal flag: maintain the spiritual glow [64-79]
And as the standard for all these points, Anne spoke of the Bible. She wrote:
“Let all your reading be guided. . . . Of course the Bible ought to be the main Source Book of all. No day ought to pass without reading it. . . . Rather have a “Quiet Time” if possible before meeting them [occasions which lead one into temptation] and go with a prayer in your heart. Lean on God and not on yourself. [pp. 60-61]
Gloria Deo
Messages of Thanks for Free Books and of Inquiry About Details
We just received the following message (and we sent the following reply)about the two cases of free books for which the recipient sent us $30.00 per case and received two cases. He then received a third gratuitous case a while later and asked if he needed to send an additional $30. So we explained to him and explain to our readers what has been transpiring in the free book distributions over the more than three months of processing. Enjoy:
"T....: What a joy to receive a letter like yours. We have now sent out almost all of our 14,000 new books in almost all of the 350 cases. And When we were well along in the process (a three month endeavor which involved hiring 5 strong young men to do the lifting out of storage, the lifting into rented trucks and the lifting out of rented trucks at two different post offices), we still had many cases for which no $30. had been asked for or received. I therefore decided to send to a lot of faithful Christian warriors like you a good many cases at our own total expense.
We did not ask. We just sent. And except for three or four impatient Alkies who are still awaiting the slow boat from Maui, almost every one of the dozens of recipients has sent a nice thank you note like yours and reported that they Are distributing the books in their area and that the results are good.
And that is exactly what we had hoped for. Your additional case is free.
We love you. And keep being an ambassador for Christ without sending $30.00
God bless,
Dick B.
Original Message-----
From: T....
Sent: Saturday, May 07, 2011 1:19 PM
To: Ken at condo; Dick B.
Subject: 3rd Case of $30.00 books
Ken, Dick
Aloha and Gods Great Blessings to You Both.
I received a 3rd case of books, "New Light on Alcoholism". I had only sent you two different Money Orders for $30.00.
Should I send along another $30.00?
The local response to your books has been very positive and a great way to witness Christ to AA's that are still chasing a "higher power".... "The Power of God" Book has especially started some great conversations.
Let me know if I need to send along another $30.00 Thanks for all you do Dick B.
I Thank God every day that I found you online.
Praise Our Lord Jesus!
T...."
"T....: What a joy to receive a letter like yours. We have now sent out almost all of our 14,000 new books in almost all of the 350 cases. And When we were well along in the process (a three month endeavor which involved hiring 5 strong young men to do the lifting out of storage, the lifting into rented trucks and the lifting out of rented trucks at two different post offices), we still had many cases for which no $30. had been asked for or received. I therefore decided to send to a lot of faithful Christian warriors like you a good many cases at our own total expense.
We did not ask. We just sent. And except for three or four impatient Alkies who are still awaiting the slow boat from Maui, almost every one of the dozens of recipients has sent a nice thank you note like yours and reported that they Are distributing the books in their area and that the results are good.
And that is exactly what we had hoped for. Your additional case is free.
We love you. And keep being an ambassador for Christ without sending $30.00
God bless,
Dick B.
Original Message-----
From: T....
Sent: Saturday, May 07, 2011 1:19 PM
To: Ken at condo; Dick B.
Subject: 3rd Case of $30.00 books
Ken, Dick
Aloha and Gods Great Blessings to You Both.
I received a 3rd case of books, "New Light on Alcoholism". I had only sent you two different Money Orders for $30.00.
Should I send along another $30.00?
The local response to your books has been very positive and a great way to witness Christ to AA's that are still chasing a "higher power".... "The Power of God" Book has especially started some great conversations.
Let me know if I need to send along another $30.00 Thanks for all you do Dick B.
I Thank God every day that I found you online.
Praise Our Lord Jesus!
T...."
Friday, May 6, 2011
International Christian Recovery Coalition Feature Web Page
International Christian Recovery Coalition Main Website Page Content May 6 2011
1. Logo
2. Mission statement
3. Explanation: “International Christian Recovery Coalition is a growing worldwide
Fellowship of Christian Recovery leaders and workers and others
advancing the mission and projects of the Christian Recovery Movement”
4. How to become a participant in the International Christian Recovery Coalition
There is no charge. Participation is free.
Read the Mission Statement on www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com
If appropriate to your interests, send us your listing like the following to
dickb@dickb.com:
“Mary Frankfurter, Recovered AA believer, South Pole, Antarctica 96753”
[Optional: You may add your mail address, zip, phone, and email]
4. Our major current project: Establishing worldwide Christian Recovery Resource Centers
An individual, Christian counselor, Christian chaplain, Christian counseling center, Christian treatment program, or Christian Fellowship or Recovery Group can serve. And these are the facts you need to know:
(a) To become a center, the individual or entity must, free of charge, be or become a participant in the International Christian Recovery Coalition.
(b) The purpose of each Center or individual is to provide information, assessment, and referrals to those seeking God’s help in recovery. Unless otherwise licensed, the individual or center need have no professional capacity because his or its purpose is simply to answer inquiries, inform, and refer.
(c) The individual or entity need only provide whatever service or help is already within his, her, or its existing capability or program. No other help need be involved.
(d) Then that individual or entity may do any or all of the following: (1) Answer questions as to where an alcoholic, addict, or affected other can receive Christian recovery help in the area. (2) Refer an inquirer to a Christian recovery counselor, detox or medical facility, treatment program, Christian recovery fellowship, Christian recovery pastor, chaplain, Christian residential recovery facility, or Christian church, as well as to 12 Step programs in the area. (3) Meet or communicate personally by phone or email with an alcoholic, addict, or affected other in the area and assess the needs, provide information as to Christian recovery help as well as community help for veterans, military, mentally ill, homeless, and financial and housing resources—this if the individual has such knowledge; and refer to known reliable resources. (4) Refer inquirers to other Christian recovery resource centers in the United States or where located. (5) Network with other individuals or entities in order to enhance information and referral capabilities.
(e) A one-time donation of $500. is required to help defray the costs of providing the materials below and meet the expense of maintaining websites, etc.
(f) Upon receipt of the one-time donation by use of your phone, credit card,
Paypal, check or money order, you will be provided with the following items:
(1) The “Introductory Foundations for Christian Recovery” Class,
which is described on www.dickb.com/IFCR-Class.shtml, and
consists of four DVD’s (about 1 hour each), plus an instructor
guide, and a student class guide.
(2) The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide, 3rd ed., 2010, which is
Described on www.dickb.com/Christian-Recov-Guide.shtml
(3) The Dick B. Handbook for Christian Recovery Resource Centers
Worldwide
(4) Updated listings and other information about Christian Recovery Resource Centers – which have already been established in US, UK, and Canada
(5) While the few remaining cases last, ONE free case of new Dick B.
A.A. history books; and when we run out, at your option—a set of 29 Dick B. A.A. Christian recovery history books—at cost. The cost of
Print-on-demand production is about $104.00 And the printer will send the set directly to you within the US at the mailing cost of
About an additional $12.00 , or, if outside the US, for mailing cost to be arranged.
(6) An opportunity to serve and be listed on our Speakers Bureau, and
To communicate freely with Dick B. and/or Ken B. about questions,
suggestions, needs, and additional projects.
Other projects of International Christian Recovery Coalition Already Completed, In Progress, or
Planned:
(a) Dick B. YouTube broadcasts
(b) Free Dick B. newsletters
(c) The almost-complete free shipment of 350 cases of new Dick B. A.A. history books.
(d) Conferences and Seminars as and when funded
(e) Our new blog: www.internationalchristianrecoverycoalition.blogspot.com.
We have two important thoughts for those who read and review this website:
“We Christians in the recovery arena are not alone”
“International Christian Recovery Coalition is intended to be ‘A.A. Friendly, Bible Friendly, History Friendly, and Newcomer Friendly’”
1. Logo
2. Mission statement
3. Explanation: “International Christian Recovery Coalition is a growing worldwide
Fellowship of Christian Recovery leaders and workers and others
advancing the mission and projects of the Christian Recovery Movement”
4. How to become a participant in the International Christian Recovery Coalition
There is no charge. Participation is free.
Read the Mission Statement on www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com
If appropriate to your interests, send us your listing like the following to
dickb@dickb.com:
“Mary Frankfurter, Recovered AA believer, South Pole, Antarctica 96753”
[Optional: You may add your mail address, zip, phone, and email]
4. Our major current project: Establishing worldwide Christian Recovery Resource Centers
An individual, Christian counselor, Christian chaplain, Christian counseling center, Christian treatment program, or Christian Fellowship or Recovery Group can serve. And these are the facts you need to know:
(a) To become a center, the individual or entity must, free of charge, be or become a participant in the International Christian Recovery Coalition.
(b) The purpose of each Center or individual is to provide information, assessment, and referrals to those seeking God’s help in recovery. Unless otherwise licensed, the individual or center need have no professional capacity because his or its purpose is simply to answer inquiries, inform, and refer.
(c) The individual or entity need only provide whatever service or help is already within his, her, or its existing capability or program. No other help need be involved.
(d) Then that individual or entity may do any or all of the following: (1) Answer questions as to where an alcoholic, addict, or affected other can receive Christian recovery help in the area. (2) Refer an inquirer to a Christian recovery counselor, detox or medical facility, treatment program, Christian recovery fellowship, Christian recovery pastor, chaplain, Christian residential recovery facility, or Christian church, as well as to 12 Step programs in the area. (3) Meet or communicate personally by phone or email with an alcoholic, addict, or affected other in the area and assess the needs, provide information as to Christian recovery help as well as community help for veterans, military, mentally ill, homeless, and financial and housing resources—this if the individual has such knowledge; and refer to known reliable resources. (4) Refer inquirers to other Christian recovery resource centers in the United States or where located. (5) Network with other individuals or entities in order to enhance information and referral capabilities.
(e) A one-time donation of $500. is required to help defray the costs of providing the materials below and meet the expense of maintaining websites, etc.
(f) Upon receipt of the one-time donation by use of your phone, credit card,
Paypal, check or money order, you will be provided with the following items:
(1) The “Introductory Foundations for Christian Recovery” Class,
which is described on www.dickb.com/IFCR-Class.shtml, and
consists of four DVD’s (about 1 hour each), plus an instructor
guide, and a student class guide.
(2) The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide, 3rd ed., 2010, which is
Described on www.dickb.com/Christian-Recov-Guide.shtml
(3) The Dick B. Handbook for Christian Recovery Resource Centers
Worldwide
(4) Updated listings and other information about Christian Recovery Resource Centers – which have already been established in US, UK, and Canada
(5) While the few remaining cases last, ONE free case of new Dick B.
A.A. history books; and when we run out, at your option—a set of 29 Dick B. A.A. Christian recovery history books—at cost. The cost of
Print-on-demand production is about $104.00 And the printer will send the set directly to you within the US at the mailing cost of
About an additional $12.00 , or, if outside the US, for mailing cost to be arranged.
(6) An opportunity to serve and be listed on our Speakers Bureau, and
To communicate freely with Dick B. and/or Ken B. about questions,
suggestions, needs, and additional projects.
Other projects of International Christian Recovery Coalition Already Completed, In Progress, or
Planned:
(a) Dick B. YouTube broadcasts
(b) Free Dick B. newsletters
(c) The almost-complete free shipment of 350 cases of new Dick B. A.A. history books.
(d) Conferences and Seminars as and when funded
(e) Our new blog: www.internationalchristianrecoverycoalition.blogspot.com.
We have two important thoughts for those who read and review this website:
“We Christians in the recovery arena are not alone”
“International Christian Recovery Coalition is intended to be ‘A.A. Friendly, Bible Friendly, History Friendly, and Newcomer Friendly’”
Chaz C. of British Columbia becomes lates partticipant
Chaz C., Recovred Christian A.A., British Columbia, Canada has just become another participant in the International Christian Recovery Coalition www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com.
Shipping the 14,000 free Dick B. A.A. History Books
One of the many projects for 2011 of the International Christian Recovery Coalition was arranging for the shipping media mail free to the recipient a huge number of Dick B. A.A. history books in storage in Maui. Here is the report
Shipping the fourteen thousand free new Dick B. history books in the 350 cases took about 3 months, with 5 husky young men helping with the work, and the material going out media mail. Many have received their cases, and many have not yet received them because media mail time out of Maui has varied between 4 or 5 weeks and 3 months. Hang in there. Pony express is reliable. Dick
Shipping the fourteen thousand free new Dick B. history books in the 350 cases took about 3 months, with 5 husky young men helping with the work, and the material going out media mail. Many have received their cases, and many have not yet received them because media mail time out of Maui has varied between 4 or 5 weeks and 3 months. Hang in there. Pony express is reliable. Dick
Christian Recovery Resource Centers Checklist
Christian Recovery Resource Center Guide and Checklist
Taken from
The Dick B. Handbook for Christian Recovery Resource Centers and Persons Worldwide
By Dick B., with Ken B.
© 2011 Anonymous. All rights reserved
What Those in Need May Not Find or Hear When They Cry Out for Help
and
How Christian Recovery Resource Centers and Persons May Inform and Assist Those in Need
The Importance of Stressing the Availability of Healing by the Power of God—A Fact That the Cofounders of A.A. Made Crystal Clear to AAs
• The Bible is filled with accounts of healing in the Old Testament, the Gospels, and the Book of Acts. Moreover, there are clearly-documented cases of healing by Christians in the centuries following. See Dick B., The First Nationwide Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference, 2d ed. (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 2006), 1-19, 25-33, 89-97.
• A.A. cofounder Bill Wilson’s own experience and remarks attested to the fact that God healed him of alcoholism. And the trail to a cure began with his doctor, William Silkworth, and his old friend, Ebby Thacher: (1) Silkworth, Bill’s physician, had told Bill that the Great Physician (Jesus Christ) could cure him. [See Dale Mitchel, Silkworth The Little Doctor Who Love Drunks: The Biography of William Duncan Silkworth, M.D. (Center City, MN: Hazelden, 2002), 33-35, 44,, 47-51.] Wilson confirmed Silkworth as “very much a founder of A.A.” [Mitchel, Silkworth, 107.] (2) Having received Silkworth’s advice about cure, Bill received a surprise visit from his old schoolmate and drinking friend, Ebby Thacher. Ebby told Bill a number of things that not only paralleled Silkworth’s advice, but demonstrated that Ebby too had believed in healing and had specifically sought it. (a) Ebby told Bill: “I've got religion;” (b) “Oxford Groupers had suggested that Ebby needed to call on God . . . to help him with his problem.” (c) “[T]hese fellows told me they had run into a group called the Oxford Group, and had gotten some pretty sensible things out of it based on the life of Christ, biblical times.” (d) They had lodged Ebby in Calvary Mission, operated by Rev. Shoemaker’s Calvary Episcopal Church. (e) “finally how he’d tried prayer just as an experiment and had found to his surprise that it had worked.” (f) Ebby had surrendered (made a decision for Christ at the Mission altar) on November 1, 1934, about a month before he called on Bill. (g) “that the desire [to drink] had been lifted right out of him. It had simply vanished. He no longer sat on a powder keg. He was released. He was free.” [See Mel B., Ebby: The Man Who Sponsored Bill W. (Center City, MN: Hazelden, 1998), 6-7, 10, 49-51, 58-59, 62, 64-65, 68.]
• Several additional points about Bill and Ebby are discussed and documented elsewhere: (a) Ebby’s Oxford Group “sponsor” was Rowland Hazard. (b) Hazard had been treated
for alcoholism by the famous Dr. Carl G. Jung, but he had failed to recover. Rowland aligned himself with the Oxford Group; and, “In these surroundings, Roland [sic] did find a conversion experience that released him for the time being from his compulsion to drink.” [“Pass It On” (New York, Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc., 1980), 382-83.] Subsequent research established that Rowland had made a decision for Christ. Jay Stinnett conducted a workshop in Reykjavik, Iceland, on March 11, 2007, and titled it “AA Spiritual History Workshop: Why Our Lives Were Saved.” Material from that workshop that appeared on the Web, with a date of 10/26/07, stated the following: “1932 New York. Rowland [Hazard] returns and joins the Calvary Church, studies with Rev. Sam Shoemaker, and gives his life to Christ. His obsession to drink is removed.” (c) Stinnett also wrote: “September 1934, New York. Ebby Thacher made a decision for Christ at Calvary Mission, and his obsession is removed.” (d) In his visit with Bill W., Ebby “made the point-blank declaration that God had done for him what he could not do for himself.” [Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th ed. (New York: Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc., 2001), 11.]
• Remembering Ebby’s report about his (Ebby's) decision for Christ at Calvary Mission, Bill decided to go to the Mission and see for himself what they did there. [Bill W.: My First 40 Years: An Autobiography by the Cofounder of Alcoholics Anonymous (Center City, MN: Hazelden, 2000), 136.] Bill went to Calvary Mission and made his own decision for Christ at the altar. [Dick B., The Conversion of Bill W.: More on the Creator’s Role in Early A.A. (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 2006), xiv-xv, 60-62, 73-74, 88-95.] Echoing Ebby’s own words, Bill wrote: “I’ve found religion;” and shortly thereafter at Towns Hospital, Bill proclaimed, “I’ve found something” [Dick B., The Conversion of Bill W., 95.] Soon thereafter, Bill wrote: “For sure I’d been born again” [My First 40 Years, 147.] And, after Bill’s new birth at the altar, he got drunk, and went to Towns Hospital depressed and despairing. Remembering Silkworth’s talk with him about the Great Physician and cure, Bill thought to himself: “Yes, if there was any great physician that could cure the alcohol sickness, I’d better seek him now, at once. I’d better find what my friend had found.” On arrival at Towns Hospital, Bill said: “I remember saying to myself, ‘I’ll do anything, anything at all. If there be a Great Physician, I’ll call on him.'” Then Bill said, “I cried out, ‘If there be a God, let him show himself.’” His room “blazed with an indescribably white light.” He thought “You are a free man.” “I became acutely conscious of a presence which seemed like a veritable sea of living spirit.” “‘This,’ I thought, ‘must be the great reality, The God of the preachers.’” [My First 40 Years, 136-47.] Bill never drank again!
• Bill’s firm confidence that he had been healed by the power of God is attested by three
documented events. First, Bill left Towns Hospital a free man. He immediately began looking everywhere for drunks to help—at the Mission, Towns Hospital, flea bag hotels, the Bowery, and even Oxford Group meetings. Second, as Bill sallied forth, “With Lois’s full support, he was soon walking through the gutters of the Bowery, into the nut ward at Bellevue Hospital, down the slimy corridors of fleabag hotels, and into the detox unit at Towns with a Bible under his arm. He was promising sobriety to every drunk he could corner if they, like he, would only turn their lives over to God.” [William G. Borchert, The Lois Wilson Story: When Love Is Not Enough: A Biography of the Cofounder of Al-Anon (Center City, MN:: Hazelden, 2005), 170.] Finally, Bill’s message was crystal clear as to his belief that he had been cured. That message is preserved to this day in Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th ed, page 191: “'Henrietta, the Lord has been so wonderful to me curing me of this terrible disease that I just want to keep talking about it and telling people.'”
• With typical brevity and clarity, Dr. Bob simply wrote: “Your Heavenly Father will never
let you down!” Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th ed., 181.
• Dr Bob had a host of healing and prayer books in his library and among the books he circulated to early AAs and their families. One of these healing books reporting thousands of healings worldwide was James Moore Hickson, Heal the Sick (London: Metthuen & Co., 1924). A second was a review of biblical healings and personal healings: Ethel R. Willitts, Healing in Jesus Name (Crawfordsville, IN: Ethel R. Willitts, Publisher, 1931).
Possible Sources of Inquiries You Can Develop and
from Which You May Hear
The Internet: Facebook, Twitter, Blogs, Articles, Forums, Cross-links, your own Web site.
Newspapers and magazines of all kinds.
TV and radio shows.
Word-of-mouth mention.
Clergy, churches, pastoral and recovery counselors, physicians, psychologists, psychiatrists.
Fellowships.
12th Steppers, sponsors, mentors, peer counselors.
Counselors and social workers.
Interventions.
Chaplains.
Call Centers and law enforcement.
Conferences and recovery seminars, programs, meetings.
Speakers and our own International Christian Recovery Coalition Speakers Bureau.
Study groups, Big Book groups, Step groups, Bible groups, prayer groups.
Bookstores.
Restaurants.
Welcome and information centers.
Hospitals.
Treatment centers, rehabs, detox facilities, aftercare, alumni, and sober living programs.
Community service agencies—veterans facilities, military facilities, the United Way, the Salvation Army, the YMCA, churches, welfare agencies, mental health agencies, community medical centers, the Red Cross, the Chamber of Commerce, service clubs, support groups, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and Campfire Girls, coaches, teachers, schools, colleges, libraries, housing facilities, retirement centers, elderly care agencies, volunteer groups, and clinics.
Initial Inquiry and Interview
• When a person who wants God's help with overcoming alcoholism and/or drug addiction (or someone else concerned about a family member, friend, employee, etc., who may want such help) contacts you or your group or your organization, we suggest you conduct a preliminary talk with that inquirer. A talk which, on your end, may be led by a recovered alcoholic, addict, or codependent A.A., N.A., or substance abuse worker. A leader who will tell the afflicted and the affected about healing and cure, about alcoholism and addiction, about signs of trouble, and about his or her own experience.
• We suggest you ask the newcomer to tell you their personal story. Review with that newcomer the famous “Twenty Questions” originally published by Johns Hopkins. Review the “More About Alcoholism” chapter in the Big Book, and the suggested test on 44 of the Big Book. Find out if the newcomer has had enough misery and trouble; if he or she wants to quit drinking and abusing drugs for good; and if he or she concedes to his or her innermost self that he or she is an alcoholic and/or addict. Determine whether he or she is willing to go to any lengths—i.e., to do whatever it takes—to get well. Learn whether he or she believes in God and wants to seek God’s help. Find out whether he or she is born again; and, if not, whether he or she is willing to come to God through Jesus Christ His Son.
Assessment
• Establish that the newcomer wants to pursue comprehensive Christian recovery.
• Explain: (1) the option of seeing a professional, licensed Christian alcohol, drug, and codependency counselor; (2) what to read about Christian counseling if there is interest; and (3) how a Christian counselor might be helpful.
• Help the newcomer determine whether immediate medical diagnosis, assistance, and/or detoxification are needed, and where to find medical help—even in the nearest Emergency Room.
• Explain the option of an intervention by a skilled interventionist who will use love first—not just break down the patient or family—and will insure that a willing alcoholic or addict, or non-alcoholic or non-alcoholic family member of friend will also seek God’s help and be able to find it as the end result of the intervention.
• Explain a comprehensive effective program elements in a Christian or Christian Track treatment program.
Provide Relevant Information about Christian Recovery
• Show the person or persons interviewed why the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program founded in Akron in 1935—and its predecessors in the Young Men's Christian Association (the YMCA), the Salvation Army, Gospel rescue missions, revivals, and the Young People’s Society of Christian Endeavor—were so enormously successful through reliance on the help of God. Show them the “Introductory Foundations for Christian Recovery” class on four DVD’s, or enable them to procure and view the class at home or elsewhere. Explain how the first three AAs got sober; the original, seven-point, A.A. “Christian fellowship” program developed and followed in Akron, and documented in February 1938 by Frank Amos; and the 14 practices of the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program.
• Make it clear that Christian recovery help will only begin if:
The person in need: (1) believes that he or she is “licked”—i.e., fully concedes to his or her innermost self that he or she is an alcoholic and/or addict; (2) really wants help; and (3) is willing to listen and cooperate in order to overcome his or her alcoholism, addiction, and related self-destructive behaviors and life-controlling problems.
The family, friends, relatives, employers, teachers, etc., of the afflicted alcoholic and/or addict don’t think that they can—by themselves—“fix” the person in need, or “force” or “persuade” the person in need to seek help; and that they recognize that they too may need counseling, and/or one or more treatment sessions.
The afflicted alcoholic and/or addict concedes, through learning: (1) he or she is beyond his or her own help, or the help of others; (2) he or she has an uncontrolled alcohol and/or drug problem; and (3) that alcoholism and drug addiction get progressively worse and produce even more problems.
The afflicted alcoholic and/or addict has decided to: (1) quit permanently; (2) get well; (3) end the misery; (4) do whatever it takes to overcome his or her alcoholism and/or addiction; and (5) discipline himself or herself to stick with the effort.
The afflicted alcoholic and/or addict stops tolerating recidivism, relapse, and revolving door treatment; and that they “go for the gold”—complete recovery, hard-won, once and for all.
The afflicted alcoholic and/or addict at least glimpses the idea that “nothing changes if nothing changes.” In other words, the afflicted alcoholic and/or addict, as well as those affected by them, all need new “playmates” (i.e., friends and associates)—not former tempters, dealers, failed quitters, or enablers. They need new “playgrounds” (i.e., places where they will not be readily tempted to drink or use)—not bars, or other dark and “slippery” places. They need completely new ideas and approaches to their problems. And they must acquire new tools to use to overcome temptation, guilt, shame, fear, anger, self-centeredness, dishonesty, and trouble.
In our opinion, the afflicted alcoholic and/or addict:
◦ believes in—or is willing to believe in and seek—God;
◦ understands what it means to become a child of God by coming to Him through His Son Jesus Christ;
◦ understands the importance of appropriate and habitual prayer to God in the name of Jesus Christ;
◦ recognizes the need for Bible training and understanding;
◦ sees the necessity for keeping company with healthy, convicted, loving fellow-believers;
◦ wants to have fellowship with God, His Son Jesus Christ, and like-minded children of God;
◦ Understands that real, “old school” A.A. (i.e., the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program) was astonishingly simple; amazingly successful; and based on reliance on God, cleaning house, and helping others.
◦ Understands that “old school” A.A. can be followed within modern 12-Step programs today by those who want God’s help in recovery without “violating the Traditions.” This present-day opportunity still exists because A.A. General Service Conference-approved literature still in print and offered for sale by A.A. —e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous, (the “Big Book”), DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers, The Co-Founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, and other “Conference-approved” literature—do talk extensively about God, His Son Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Bible, prayer, healing, religious growth, and church. This situation exists even though the Society of Alcoholics Anonymous today also now condones and welcomes people with other beliefs, with no beliefs, or reject God outright. No matter! The “support system” of modern A.A. can still be of great value if one knows the pitfalls in present-day literature, meetings, and chatter.
◦ Understands that there is idolatry; secularism; an array of “nonsense gods;” undefined “spirituality;” and a good deal of Christian-bashing, religion-bashing, and church-bashing in many parts of the United States and other countries within modern A.A. Consequently, the afflicted alcoholic and/or addict may find it necessary to leave A.A. And seek Christian churches, fellowships, and/or groups exclusively.
Referral Options and Possible Actions
Make sure that the afflicted alcoholic/addict understands that a comprehensive Christian recovery today may require committed utilization of all the following items (as well as the many just mentioned):
Qualification of the afflicted alcoholic and/or addict as to whether he or she: (1) concedes he or she is helpless; (2) understands that determined and disciplined effort are needed to overcome his or her problems; and (3) has firmly resolved that all the former temptations, dangerous habits, slippery places, slippery people, dark activities, and the like must be dumped!
Medical assistance or detoxification.
Good vitamin, supplement, and nutrition habits; exercise; adequate sleep, filling lonely hours.
Perhaps competent Christian intervention and referral.
Early insistence on belief in God, and accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
Early introduction to: (1) the Christian origins of the recovery movement and the 12-Step groups that arose from it; (2) the history, founding, original program, successes of the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program; and (3) the changes that were made to the original Akron program, beginning with the publication of the first edition of Alcoholics Anonymous on April 10, 1939.
Emphasis on reading the Bible and praying in one's personal life.
Perhaps competent licensed or other lawful Christian counseling.
Perhaps competent Christian pastoral counseling.
Perhaps competent Christian chaplaincy in situations where a newcomer or patient may be located.
Continued medical monitoring and possibly mental health treatment.
Effective Christian residential or outpatient treatment.
Contemporaneous and complimentary treatment for family, children, concerned others
Participation at A.A. or 12-Step programs and meetings, and involvement in them, to the extent reasonable.
Participation in Christian Recovery Fellowships—now proliferating around the world.
Bible instruction and study.
Prayer instruction and meetings.
Individual “Quiet Times”—including prayer, Bible reading, reading of devotional literature, seeking guidance from God, and sharing.
A.A., N.A., Al-Anon meetings, Christian recovery fellowships—meeting schedules.
Regular contact and communication with a sponsor, mentor, or peer counselor.
Regular communication with those in recovery and/or involved in Christian activities.
Competent Big Book and 12-Step instruction for those pursuing A.A. participation.
Christian Aftercare.
Supervised Christian sober living.
Church or Bible Fellowship.
Unselfish, unremunerated, vigorous work with unrecovered alcoholics, addicts, and codependents. This is the missing link today. Such work may include sponsorship, speaking, making 12-Step calls, visiting hospitals and prisons, and conducting Big Book and Step studies. Workers involved in such activities may be called sponsors, peer counselors, mentors, “disciplers,” or Twelfth-steppers. They may be called compassionate recovered drunks or druggies who are servants. But the workers need to help others. They can help others. And because such workers are often absent in today's recovery scene, it is missing a major ingredient of the original recovery movement ideas and Steps.
Assistance in obtaining help and resources in the community—for veterans; the elderly; children; the mentally-impaired; the disabled; the indigent; the homeless; those needing transitional housing; the abandoned; the incarcerated; those needing financial counseling and relief; those facing legal and criminal proceedings; those facing divorce and child custody matters; those needing marital and family counseling, and those needing psychiatric help.
A plan for new dedication to serving and glorifying God and His Son Jesus Christ; turning to God for revelation as to details on salvation, healing, forgiveness, guidance, comfort and consolation, peace and love, the principles and teachings of Jesus Christ, and the results described in the Book of Acts regarding early Christianity.
Suggested Reading for Further Guidance
The Holy Bible, King James Version
The Runner’s Bible by Nora Smith Holm (NY: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1913)
Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th ed.
Alcoholics Anonymous, 1st ed. (forthcoming Dover Publications paperback reprint with
Introduction by Dick B.)
DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers (NY: Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc.,
1980
The Co-Founders of Alcoholics Anonymous: Biographical Sketches: Their Last Major
Talks
Jesus the Healer by E.W. Kenyon (Kenyon’s Gospel Publishing Society, Inc., 2000)
Heal the Sick by James Moore Hickson (London: Methuen & Co., 1924)
Healing in Jesus Name by Ethel R.Willitts (Crawfordsville, IN: Ethel R.Willitts
Publisher, 1931)
How It Worked:The Story of Clarence H. Snyder and the Early Days of Alcoholics
Anonymous in Cleveland, Ohio, by Mitchell K. (Washingtonville, NY: AA Big
Book Study Group, 1997)
The Book That Started It All: The Original Working Manuscript of “Alcoholics
Anonymous” With essays and notes by leading A.A. historians (Center City, MN: Hazelden, 2010)
Our A.A. Legacy to the Faith Community: A Twelve-Step Guide for Those Who Want to
Believe by Three Clarence Snyder Sponsee Old-timers and Their Wives.
Compiled and Edited by Dick B. (Winter Park, FL: Came to Believe Publications, 2005)
The Conversion of Bill W.: More on the Creator’s Role in Early A.A. by Dick B. (Kihei,
HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 2006)
The Good Book and The Big Book: A.A.’s Roots in the Bible, 2d ed., by Dick B. (Kihei,
HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 1997)
The James Club and the Original A.A. Program’s Absolute Essentials, 4th ed., by Dick B.
(Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 2005)
When Early AAs Were Cured and Why by Dick B. (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research
Publications, Inc., 2006
The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide: Historical Perspectives and Effective
Application, 3rd ed. by Dick B. and Ken B. (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research
Publications, Inc., 2010
Love First A Family’s Guide to Intervention: Updated Tools and Techniques to Help
Loved Ones Heal from Addiction, 2d ed., by Jeff Jay and Debra Jay (Center City,
MN: Hazelden, 2008)
Understanding and Counseling Persons with Alcohol, Drug, and Behavioral Addictions:
Counseling for Recovery and Prevention Using Psychology and Religion, Rev and Enl Ed., by Howard Clinebell, PhD (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1998)
Handbook for Christ-Centered Substance Abuse and Addiction Counselors, by Michael
Belzman, PhD, MDAAC, MRAS (Redlands, CA: Xulon Press, 2010)
The Dick B. Handbook for Christian Recovery Resource Centers, by Dick B. with Ken B.
(Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 2011)
As We Understand Him Meditations for Christians One Day at a Time through the Big
Book and the Bible by Cheryl Outman (Niceville, FL, 1985)
Taken from
The Dick B. Handbook for Christian Recovery Resource Centers and Persons Worldwide
By Dick B., with Ken B.
© 2011 Anonymous. All rights reserved
What Those in Need May Not Find or Hear When They Cry Out for Help
and
How Christian Recovery Resource Centers and Persons May Inform and Assist Those in Need
The Importance of Stressing the Availability of Healing by the Power of God—A Fact That the Cofounders of A.A. Made Crystal Clear to AAs
• The Bible is filled with accounts of healing in the Old Testament, the Gospels, and the Book of Acts. Moreover, there are clearly-documented cases of healing by Christians in the centuries following. See Dick B., The First Nationwide Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference, 2d ed. (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 2006), 1-19, 25-33, 89-97.
• A.A. cofounder Bill Wilson’s own experience and remarks attested to the fact that God healed him of alcoholism. And the trail to a cure began with his doctor, William Silkworth, and his old friend, Ebby Thacher: (1) Silkworth, Bill’s physician, had told Bill that the Great Physician (Jesus Christ) could cure him. [See Dale Mitchel, Silkworth The Little Doctor Who Love Drunks: The Biography of William Duncan Silkworth, M.D. (Center City, MN: Hazelden, 2002), 33-35, 44,, 47-51.] Wilson confirmed Silkworth as “very much a founder of A.A.” [Mitchel, Silkworth, 107.] (2) Having received Silkworth’s advice about cure, Bill received a surprise visit from his old schoolmate and drinking friend, Ebby Thacher. Ebby told Bill a number of things that not only paralleled Silkworth’s advice, but demonstrated that Ebby too had believed in healing and had specifically sought it. (a) Ebby told Bill: “I've got religion;” (b) “Oxford Groupers had suggested that Ebby needed to call on God . . . to help him with his problem.” (c) “[T]hese fellows told me they had run into a group called the Oxford Group, and had gotten some pretty sensible things out of it based on the life of Christ, biblical times.” (d) They had lodged Ebby in Calvary Mission, operated by Rev. Shoemaker’s Calvary Episcopal Church. (e) “finally how he’d tried prayer just as an experiment and had found to his surprise that it had worked.” (f) Ebby had surrendered (made a decision for Christ at the Mission altar) on November 1, 1934, about a month before he called on Bill. (g) “that the desire [to drink] had been lifted right out of him. It had simply vanished. He no longer sat on a powder keg. He was released. He was free.” [See Mel B., Ebby: The Man Who Sponsored Bill W. (Center City, MN: Hazelden, 1998), 6-7, 10, 49-51, 58-59, 62, 64-65, 68.]
• Several additional points about Bill and Ebby are discussed and documented elsewhere: (a) Ebby’s Oxford Group “sponsor” was Rowland Hazard. (b) Hazard had been treated
for alcoholism by the famous Dr. Carl G. Jung, but he had failed to recover. Rowland aligned himself with the Oxford Group; and, “In these surroundings, Roland [sic] did find a conversion experience that released him for the time being from his compulsion to drink.” [“Pass It On” (New York, Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc., 1980), 382-83.] Subsequent research established that Rowland had made a decision for Christ. Jay Stinnett conducted a workshop in Reykjavik, Iceland, on March 11, 2007, and titled it “AA Spiritual History Workshop: Why Our Lives Were Saved.” Material from that workshop that appeared on the Web, with a date of 10/26/07, stated the following: “1932 New York. Rowland [Hazard] returns and joins the Calvary Church, studies with Rev. Sam Shoemaker, and gives his life to Christ. His obsession to drink is removed.” (c) Stinnett also wrote: “September 1934, New York. Ebby Thacher made a decision for Christ at Calvary Mission, and his obsession is removed.” (d) In his visit with Bill W., Ebby “made the point-blank declaration that God had done for him what he could not do for himself.” [Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th ed. (New York: Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc., 2001), 11.]
• Remembering Ebby’s report about his (Ebby's) decision for Christ at Calvary Mission, Bill decided to go to the Mission and see for himself what they did there. [Bill W.: My First 40 Years: An Autobiography by the Cofounder of Alcoholics Anonymous (Center City, MN: Hazelden, 2000), 136.] Bill went to Calvary Mission and made his own decision for Christ at the altar. [Dick B., The Conversion of Bill W.: More on the Creator’s Role in Early A.A. (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 2006), xiv-xv, 60-62, 73-74, 88-95.] Echoing Ebby’s own words, Bill wrote: “I’ve found religion;” and shortly thereafter at Towns Hospital, Bill proclaimed, “I’ve found something” [Dick B., The Conversion of Bill W., 95.] Soon thereafter, Bill wrote: “For sure I’d been born again” [My First 40 Years, 147.] And, after Bill’s new birth at the altar, he got drunk, and went to Towns Hospital depressed and despairing. Remembering Silkworth’s talk with him about the Great Physician and cure, Bill thought to himself: “Yes, if there was any great physician that could cure the alcohol sickness, I’d better seek him now, at once. I’d better find what my friend had found.” On arrival at Towns Hospital, Bill said: “I remember saying to myself, ‘I’ll do anything, anything at all. If there be a Great Physician, I’ll call on him.'” Then Bill said, “I cried out, ‘If there be a God, let him show himself.’” His room “blazed with an indescribably white light.” He thought “You are a free man.” “I became acutely conscious of a presence which seemed like a veritable sea of living spirit.” “‘This,’ I thought, ‘must be the great reality, The God of the preachers.’” [My First 40 Years, 136-47.] Bill never drank again!
• Bill’s firm confidence that he had been healed by the power of God is attested by three
documented events. First, Bill left Towns Hospital a free man. He immediately began looking everywhere for drunks to help—at the Mission, Towns Hospital, flea bag hotels, the Bowery, and even Oxford Group meetings. Second, as Bill sallied forth, “With Lois’s full support, he was soon walking through the gutters of the Bowery, into the nut ward at Bellevue Hospital, down the slimy corridors of fleabag hotels, and into the detox unit at Towns with a Bible under his arm. He was promising sobriety to every drunk he could corner if they, like he, would only turn their lives over to God.” [William G. Borchert, The Lois Wilson Story: When Love Is Not Enough: A Biography of the Cofounder of Al-Anon (Center City, MN:: Hazelden, 2005), 170.] Finally, Bill’s message was crystal clear as to his belief that he had been cured. That message is preserved to this day in Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th ed, page 191: “'Henrietta, the Lord has been so wonderful to me curing me of this terrible disease that I just want to keep talking about it and telling people.'”
• With typical brevity and clarity, Dr. Bob simply wrote: “Your Heavenly Father will never
let you down!” Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th ed., 181.
• Dr Bob had a host of healing and prayer books in his library and among the books he circulated to early AAs and their families. One of these healing books reporting thousands of healings worldwide was James Moore Hickson, Heal the Sick (London: Metthuen & Co., 1924). A second was a review of biblical healings and personal healings: Ethel R. Willitts, Healing in Jesus Name (Crawfordsville, IN: Ethel R. Willitts, Publisher, 1931).
Possible Sources of Inquiries You Can Develop and
from Which You May Hear
The Internet: Facebook, Twitter, Blogs, Articles, Forums, Cross-links, your own Web site.
Newspapers and magazines of all kinds.
TV and radio shows.
Word-of-mouth mention.
Clergy, churches, pastoral and recovery counselors, physicians, psychologists, psychiatrists.
Fellowships.
12th Steppers, sponsors, mentors, peer counselors.
Counselors and social workers.
Interventions.
Chaplains.
Call Centers and law enforcement.
Conferences and recovery seminars, programs, meetings.
Speakers and our own International Christian Recovery Coalition Speakers Bureau.
Study groups, Big Book groups, Step groups, Bible groups, prayer groups.
Bookstores.
Restaurants.
Welcome and information centers.
Hospitals.
Treatment centers, rehabs, detox facilities, aftercare, alumni, and sober living programs.
Community service agencies—veterans facilities, military facilities, the United Way, the Salvation Army, the YMCA, churches, welfare agencies, mental health agencies, community medical centers, the Red Cross, the Chamber of Commerce, service clubs, support groups, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and Campfire Girls, coaches, teachers, schools, colleges, libraries, housing facilities, retirement centers, elderly care agencies, volunteer groups, and clinics.
Initial Inquiry and Interview
• When a person who wants God's help with overcoming alcoholism and/or drug addiction (or someone else concerned about a family member, friend, employee, etc., who may want such help) contacts you or your group or your organization, we suggest you conduct a preliminary talk with that inquirer. A talk which, on your end, may be led by a recovered alcoholic, addict, or codependent A.A., N.A., or substance abuse worker. A leader who will tell the afflicted and the affected about healing and cure, about alcoholism and addiction, about signs of trouble, and about his or her own experience.
• We suggest you ask the newcomer to tell you their personal story. Review with that newcomer the famous “Twenty Questions” originally published by Johns Hopkins. Review the “More About Alcoholism” chapter in the Big Book, and the suggested test on 44 of the Big Book. Find out if the newcomer has had enough misery and trouble; if he or she wants to quit drinking and abusing drugs for good; and if he or she concedes to his or her innermost self that he or she is an alcoholic and/or addict. Determine whether he or she is willing to go to any lengths—i.e., to do whatever it takes—to get well. Learn whether he or she believes in God and wants to seek God’s help. Find out whether he or she is born again; and, if not, whether he or she is willing to come to God through Jesus Christ His Son.
Assessment
• Establish that the newcomer wants to pursue comprehensive Christian recovery.
• Explain: (1) the option of seeing a professional, licensed Christian alcohol, drug, and codependency counselor; (2) what to read about Christian counseling if there is interest; and (3) how a Christian counselor might be helpful.
• Help the newcomer determine whether immediate medical diagnosis, assistance, and/or detoxification are needed, and where to find medical help—even in the nearest Emergency Room.
• Explain the option of an intervention by a skilled interventionist who will use love first—not just break down the patient or family—and will insure that a willing alcoholic or addict, or non-alcoholic or non-alcoholic family member of friend will also seek God’s help and be able to find it as the end result of the intervention.
• Explain a comprehensive effective program elements in a Christian or Christian Track treatment program.
Provide Relevant Information about Christian Recovery
• Show the person or persons interviewed why the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program founded in Akron in 1935—and its predecessors in the Young Men's Christian Association (the YMCA), the Salvation Army, Gospel rescue missions, revivals, and the Young People’s Society of Christian Endeavor—were so enormously successful through reliance on the help of God. Show them the “Introductory Foundations for Christian Recovery” class on four DVD’s, or enable them to procure and view the class at home or elsewhere. Explain how the first three AAs got sober; the original, seven-point, A.A. “Christian fellowship” program developed and followed in Akron, and documented in February 1938 by Frank Amos; and the 14 practices of the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program.
• Make it clear that Christian recovery help will only begin if:
The person in need: (1) believes that he or she is “licked”—i.e., fully concedes to his or her innermost self that he or she is an alcoholic and/or addict; (2) really wants help; and (3) is willing to listen and cooperate in order to overcome his or her alcoholism, addiction, and related self-destructive behaviors and life-controlling problems.
The family, friends, relatives, employers, teachers, etc., of the afflicted alcoholic and/or addict don’t think that they can—by themselves—“fix” the person in need, or “force” or “persuade” the person in need to seek help; and that they recognize that they too may need counseling, and/or one or more treatment sessions.
The afflicted alcoholic and/or addict concedes, through learning: (1) he or she is beyond his or her own help, or the help of others; (2) he or she has an uncontrolled alcohol and/or drug problem; and (3) that alcoholism and drug addiction get progressively worse and produce even more problems.
The afflicted alcoholic and/or addict has decided to: (1) quit permanently; (2) get well; (3) end the misery; (4) do whatever it takes to overcome his or her alcoholism and/or addiction; and (5) discipline himself or herself to stick with the effort.
The afflicted alcoholic and/or addict stops tolerating recidivism, relapse, and revolving door treatment; and that they “go for the gold”—complete recovery, hard-won, once and for all.
The afflicted alcoholic and/or addict at least glimpses the idea that “nothing changes if nothing changes.” In other words, the afflicted alcoholic and/or addict, as well as those affected by them, all need new “playmates” (i.e., friends and associates)—not former tempters, dealers, failed quitters, or enablers. They need new “playgrounds” (i.e., places where they will not be readily tempted to drink or use)—not bars, or other dark and “slippery” places. They need completely new ideas and approaches to their problems. And they must acquire new tools to use to overcome temptation, guilt, shame, fear, anger, self-centeredness, dishonesty, and trouble.
In our opinion, the afflicted alcoholic and/or addict:
◦ believes in—or is willing to believe in and seek—God;
◦ understands what it means to become a child of God by coming to Him through His Son Jesus Christ;
◦ understands the importance of appropriate and habitual prayer to God in the name of Jesus Christ;
◦ recognizes the need for Bible training and understanding;
◦ sees the necessity for keeping company with healthy, convicted, loving fellow-believers;
◦ wants to have fellowship with God, His Son Jesus Christ, and like-minded children of God;
◦ Understands that real, “old school” A.A. (i.e., the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program) was astonishingly simple; amazingly successful; and based on reliance on God, cleaning house, and helping others.
◦ Understands that “old school” A.A. can be followed within modern 12-Step programs today by those who want God’s help in recovery without “violating the Traditions.” This present-day opportunity still exists because A.A. General Service Conference-approved literature still in print and offered for sale by A.A. —e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous, (the “Big Book”), DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers, The Co-Founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, and other “Conference-approved” literature—do talk extensively about God, His Son Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Bible, prayer, healing, religious growth, and church. This situation exists even though the Society of Alcoholics Anonymous today also now condones and welcomes people with other beliefs, with no beliefs, or reject God outright. No matter! The “support system” of modern A.A. can still be of great value if one knows the pitfalls in present-day literature, meetings, and chatter.
◦ Understands that there is idolatry; secularism; an array of “nonsense gods;” undefined “spirituality;” and a good deal of Christian-bashing, religion-bashing, and church-bashing in many parts of the United States and other countries within modern A.A. Consequently, the afflicted alcoholic and/or addict may find it necessary to leave A.A. And seek Christian churches, fellowships, and/or groups exclusively.
Referral Options and Possible Actions
Make sure that the afflicted alcoholic/addict understands that a comprehensive Christian recovery today may require committed utilization of all the following items (as well as the many just mentioned):
Qualification of the afflicted alcoholic and/or addict as to whether he or she: (1) concedes he or she is helpless; (2) understands that determined and disciplined effort are needed to overcome his or her problems; and (3) has firmly resolved that all the former temptations, dangerous habits, slippery places, slippery people, dark activities, and the like must be dumped!
Medical assistance or detoxification.
Good vitamin, supplement, and nutrition habits; exercise; adequate sleep, filling lonely hours.
Perhaps competent Christian intervention and referral.
Early insistence on belief in God, and accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
Early introduction to: (1) the Christian origins of the recovery movement and the 12-Step groups that arose from it; (2) the history, founding, original program, successes of the original Akron A.A. “Christian fellowship” program; and (3) the changes that were made to the original Akron program, beginning with the publication of the first edition of Alcoholics Anonymous on April 10, 1939.
Emphasis on reading the Bible and praying in one's personal life.
Perhaps competent licensed or other lawful Christian counseling.
Perhaps competent Christian pastoral counseling.
Perhaps competent Christian chaplaincy in situations where a newcomer or patient may be located.
Continued medical monitoring and possibly mental health treatment.
Effective Christian residential or outpatient treatment.
Contemporaneous and complimentary treatment for family, children, concerned others
Participation at A.A. or 12-Step programs and meetings, and involvement in them, to the extent reasonable.
Participation in Christian Recovery Fellowships—now proliferating around the world.
Bible instruction and study.
Prayer instruction and meetings.
Individual “Quiet Times”—including prayer, Bible reading, reading of devotional literature, seeking guidance from God, and sharing.
A.A., N.A., Al-Anon meetings, Christian recovery fellowships—meeting schedules.
Regular contact and communication with a sponsor, mentor, or peer counselor.
Regular communication with those in recovery and/or involved in Christian activities.
Competent Big Book and 12-Step instruction for those pursuing A.A. participation.
Christian Aftercare.
Supervised Christian sober living.
Church or Bible Fellowship.
Unselfish, unremunerated, vigorous work with unrecovered alcoholics, addicts, and codependents. This is the missing link today. Such work may include sponsorship, speaking, making 12-Step calls, visiting hospitals and prisons, and conducting Big Book and Step studies. Workers involved in such activities may be called sponsors, peer counselors, mentors, “disciplers,” or Twelfth-steppers. They may be called compassionate recovered drunks or druggies who are servants. But the workers need to help others. They can help others. And because such workers are often absent in today's recovery scene, it is missing a major ingredient of the original recovery movement ideas and Steps.
Assistance in obtaining help and resources in the community—for veterans; the elderly; children; the mentally-impaired; the disabled; the indigent; the homeless; those needing transitional housing; the abandoned; the incarcerated; those needing financial counseling and relief; those facing legal and criminal proceedings; those facing divorce and child custody matters; those needing marital and family counseling, and those needing psychiatric help.
A plan for new dedication to serving and glorifying God and His Son Jesus Christ; turning to God for revelation as to details on salvation, healing, forgiveness, guidance, comfort and consolation, peace and love, the principles and teachings of Jesus Christ, and the results described in the Book of Acts regarding early Christianity.
Suggested Reading for Further Guidance
The Holy Bible, King James Version
The Runner’s Bible by Nora Smith Holm (NY: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1913)
Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th ed.
Alcoholics Anonymous, 1st ed. (forthcoming Dover Publications paperback reprint with
Introduction by Dick B.)
DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers (NY: Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc.,
1980
The Co-Founders of Alcoholics Anonymous: Biographical Sketches: Their Last Major
Talks
Jesus the Healer by E.W. Kenyon (Kenyon’s Gospel Publishing Society, Inc., 2000)
Heal the Sick by James Moore Hickson (London: Methuen & Co., 1924)
Healing in Jesus Name by Ethel R.Willitts (Crawfordsville, IN: Ethel R.Willitts
Publisher, 1931)
How It Worked:The Story of Clarence H. Snyder and the Early Days of Alcoholics
Anonymous in Cleveland, Ohio, by Mitchell K. (Washingtonville, NY: AA Big
Book Study Group, 1997)
The Book That Started It All: The Original Working Manuscript of “Alcoholics
Anonymous” With essays and notes by leading A.A. historians (Center City, MN: Hazelden, 2010)
Our A.A. Legacy to the Faith Community: A Twelve-Step Guide for Those Who Want to
Believe by Three Clarence Snyder Sponsee Old-timers and Their Wives.
Compiled and Edited by Dick B. (Winter Park, FL: Came to Believe Publications, 2005)
The Conversion of Bill W.: More on the Creator’s Role in Early A.A. by Dick B. (Kihei,
HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 2006)
The Good Book and The Big Book: A.A.’s Roots in the Bible, 2d ed., by Dick B. (Kihei,
HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 1997)
The James Club and the Original A.A. Program’s Absolute Essentials, 4th ed., by Dick B.
(Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 2005)
When Early AAs Were Cured and Why by Dick B. (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research
Publications, Inc., 2006
The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide: Historical Perspectives and Effective
Application, 3rd ed. by Dick B. and Ken B. (Kihei, HI: Paradise Research
Publications, Inc., 2010
Love First A Family’s Guide to Intervention: Updated Tools and Techniques to Help
Loved Ones Heal from Addiction, 2d ed., by Jeff Jay and Debra Jay (Center City,
MN: Hazelden, 2008)
Understanding and Counseling Persons with Alcohol, Drug, and Behavioral Addictions:
Counseling for Recovery and Prevention Using Psychology and Religion, Rev and Enl Ed., by Howard Clinebell, PhD (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1998)
Handbook for Christ-Centered Substance Abuse and Addiction Counselors, by Michael
Belzman, PhD, MDAAC, MRAS (Redlands, CA: Xulon Press, 2010)
The Dick B. Handbook for Christian Recovery Resource Centers, by Dick B. with Ken B.
(Kihei, HI: Paradise Research Publications, Inc., 2011)
As We Understand Him Meditations for Christians One Day at a Time through the Big
Book and the Bible by Cheryl Outman (Niceville, FL, 1985)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)