Seventh-day Adventists with dependency problems are finding new hope for continuing recovery in a series of weekend spiritual retreats especially for them. These Celebrations of Recovery are planned for SDA addicts and codependents and their families, and are being held annually in major parts of the United States. Gradually the concept is being introduced into other world divisions of the church.
The idea originated with the first celebration held at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, in 1987. Since then, celebrations have been held in Washington, D.C., southern California, the Pacific Northwest, and New England. Additional ones are being organized in other areas.
The consistent sponsor of all these is the Association of Adventist Parents (AAP), with cosponsors often being hospitals or local conferences. AAP as an organization that dates from 1985 and was founded to help cope with the growing addiction problems in Adventist churches and families, especially for persons who are already involved in chemical or other dependencies.
The celebration is for the purpose of exploring spiritual resources for recovery; sharing experiences, strength, and hope; and bringing praise to God for the gift of continuing sobriety. Program specifics are directed by local organizing committees.
“The Joy of Serenity and Salvation,” as the celebration is titled, is a weekend convention following the guidelines of the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. During open speakers’ meetings, recovering persons tell their stories of God’s work in their lives. Workshops and closed discussions deal with various aspects of recovery.
“Clean Time” is celebrated with sobriety anniversaries at a Saturday night token ceremony. Concluding the weekend are a “Step Breakfast” and a group consciousness meeting for evaluation and future plans.
Hundreds of SDA s in recent years have found new strength and hope in the celebration.