Joe Schafer's Journey: From Secret Addictions to Redemption
Episode Overview
Addiction can be hidden even from those closest to you. Denial is a common barrier to recognising addiction. Faith and spiritual principles can guide recovery. The 12 steps offer a structured path to healing. Sharing your story can inspire others on their journey.
"I was living for Christ, but somewhere along the line, compromise came in."
In this episode of Christians with Secret Addictions, Terry Hanna sits down with Joe Schafer, a man whose life story is as riveting as it is inspiring. Joe opens up about his past struggles with addiction, painting a vivid picture of his journey from being a devout Christian to battling a secret alcohol and narcotics dependency.
With humour and honesty, Joe recounts how he was once a part of the Jesus Revolution, spreading the word of God on the streets of Pittsburgh. But somewhere along the way, things took a turn, and he found himself trapped in the clutches of addiction. Joe's story is a rollercoaster ride through decades of hiding his alcohol use from his family, to spiralling into narcotics abuse while working as a nurse.
He shares the gripping tale of how he manipulated situations to feed his habit, and the internal battle of denial he faced. Yet, amidst the darkness, Joe found hope and recovery through the 12 steps and his faith in God. This episode offers a raw and honest look at the power of addiction and the strength required to overcome it. Joe's testimony serves as a reminder that no matter how deep the struggle, there is always a path to recovery.
His story is not just about the fight against addiction but also about rediscovering one's faith and finding light at the end of the tunnel. For anyone facing similar challenges or supporting someone who is, Joe's journey is a beacon of hope. His candidness might just be the spark needed to take that first step towards healing. So, why not listen in and see what you can take away from Joe's experiences?