Recovery: A Mystical Experience is the product of over thirty years of ministry with women and men who identify as addicts. Drawing on the writings of Dr. Gerald May, I base my reflections on his conviction that "To be human is to be addicted and to be human and addicted is to stand in need of grace." My understanding of the spirituality of the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous is juxtaposed on my many years of contemplation on the mystics. I suggest that what Richard Rohr, OFM refers to "running from resurrection" is a classic image of addiction. Central to an understanding of addiction and relapse is a tool I call the addictions wheel.
About the Author
Marguerite Tierney is a Sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet. She had been an educator in schools from intermediate through high school as well as adult education. She has been a counselor, spiritual director and retreat facilitator for many years. She is a credentialed addictions counselor and received formal education as an intervention specialist with the Johnson Institute. Marguerite has worked as addictions counselor and spiritual director in high school and treatment centers. She holds a BS in Education from the College of St. Rose in Albany and a Masters degree from the College for Human development at Syracuse. She has done graduate studies in Theology and Spirituality at Catholic University of America and The Jesuit School at Berkley, CA.
