Father Tom Hoare on the Spiritual Path to Recovery
Spirituality is about being connected, and it's both a private and a shared experience.
What does it mean to find a spiritual path in the midst of recovery? Mary Woods sits down with Father Thomas Hoare, President of St. Edmund's Retreat, to unpack this very question. Father Tom, with decades of experience in both religious and recovery communities, shares his unique perspective on how spirituality can be a cornerstone in the healing process. But don't think this is just about religion.
Father Tom emphasizes that spirituality is about finding a higher purpose or divine essence that resonates personally with each individual. The conversation dives deep into the multifaceted nature of recovery, touching on the biological, emotional, and spiritual components that make up the journey. Father Tom makes it clear that while the physical and emotional aspects might be more visible, the spiritual component is equally vital.
He talks about faith—not just in a higher power but also in oneself and others—as a critical element in navigating life's ups and downs. Forgiveness takes center stage as well. Father Tom explains that forgiving oneself is crucial for opening up to others and experiencing true acceptance and love. It's not an easy task, but it's a necessary step for growth and healing. The episode also underscores the importance of community and connectedness.
According to Father Tom, spirituality isn't something you can fully grasp alone; it requires interaction with others to develop a deeper understanding. The discussion wraps up by highlighting the 11th step in Alcoholics Anonymous, which focuses on improving conscious contact with God through prayer and meditation. This step, Father Tom notes, is about fostering a spiritual connection that is both personal and shared. The key takeaway?
Spirituality in recovery is about being connected—to oneself, to others, and to a higher purpose. Tune in to this enlightening episode to hear more about how spirituality can enrich your recovery journey.