http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickbHear from Christian Recovery Leaders and Workers Around the World enBlogTalkRadio.com. All Rights Reserved.Sat, 15 Jun 2019 23:30:00 GMTThu, 23 Jul 2015 03:30:00 GMTReligionBlogTalkRadio Feed v2.0http://www.blogtalkradio.com/img/btrbetalogo.gifhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/feeds@blogtalkradio.comBlogTalkRadio.comreligion,aa history,alcoholics anonymous,12 steps,the big book,christian recovery,bill w,big book,christian recovery leaders,alcoholics anonymous historyChristian Recovery Radio with DickBnoHear from Christian Recovery Leaders and Workers Around the Worldepisodichttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2015/07/23/dick-b-discusses-how-the-first-three-aas-got-soberReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2015/07/23/dick-b-discusses-how-the-first-three-aas-got-sober/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2015/07/23/dick-b-discusses-how-the-first-three-aas-got-soberThu, 23 Jul 2015 03:30:00 GMTDick B. Discusses How the First Three AAs Got SoberDick B. discusses how the first three AAs (A.A. cofounders Bill W. and Dr. Bob, and Akron attorney Bill D.) got sober. 00:25:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA history,Alcoholics Anonymous,Big Book,12 Steps,Bill W.Dick B. will address how "medically-incurable" alcoholics got cured of alcoholism before there was a Big Book or 12 Stepshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2015/07/20/dick-b-discusses-bringing-old-school-aa-back-to-recoveryReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2015/07/20/dick-b-discusses-bringing-old-school-aa-back-to-recovery/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2015/07/20/dick-b-discusses-bringing-old-school-aa-back-to-recoveryMon, 20 Jul 2015 03:30:00 GMTDick B. Discusses Bringing "Old-School" A.A. Back to RecoveryDick B. Discusses Bringing "Old-School" A.A. Back to Recovery 00:17:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,Big Book,12 Steps,Bill W.,Dr. BobDick B. shares with Christian leaders and workers in the recovery arena how to use his 25 years of research in today's recovery scenehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/11/22/dick-b-on-the-rest-of-story-about-old-school-aa-available-to-the-newcomer-todayReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/11/22/dick-b-on-the-rest-of-story-about-old-school-aa-available-to-the-newcomer-today/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/11/22/dick-b-on-the-rest-of-story-about-old-school-aa-available-to-the-newcomer-todaySat, 22 Nov 2014 04:00:00 GMTDick B. on the Rest of Story about Old-School AA Available to the Newcomer TodayDick B. discusses "old-school" A.A. and "the rest of the story" available to newcomers today. 00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA History,12 Steps,The Big Book,Bill W.Dick B. discusses "old-school" A.A. and "the rest of the story" available to newcomers today.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/10/10/the-rest-of-the-recovery-story-directed-at-the-needs-of-the-newcomerReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/10/10/the-rest-of-the-recovery-story-directed-at-the-needs-of-the-newcomer/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/10/10/the-rest-of-the-recovery-story-directed-at-the-needs-of-the-newcomerFri, 10 Oct 2014 03:00:00 GMTThe Rest of the Recovery Story, Directed at the Needs of the NewcomerThe newcomer is most likely an alcoholic, an addict, and difinitely "at risk." When they arrive in a structured program, it may involve intervention, detox, counseling, treatment, and avoidance of relapses. But the A.A. newcomer has no armor. They didn't hear that hear recovery in early A.A. very much resembled First Century Christianity. And there was therefore little stress on Christian fellowship, believing, prayer, or study of the Bible. Was A.A. like that? If so, the newcomer didn't hear it. The strongest contrast to what the newcomer didn't hear was stashed away in the pages of A.A. General Service Conference-approved literature, which offered a simple beginning. Quit drinking forever. Give one's life to God. Live according to God's will. And the placing of one's major focus on the helping of others. Was A.A. like that? The newcomer didn't hear it. When we started our research into A.A.'s background, our focus was on "training the trainers" as to what they did with and for the newcomers, urging Bible study, prayer, meetings in the home daily, and helping others. This information was virtually unknown in the Fellowship until our effort was turned on to research and publishing 46 books and 1,700 articles on how A.A. had begun and operated. Was that information passed along? The movement of A.A. from some 40 people in late 1937 to some 2 million today focuses much more on the social aspects of the Fellowship rather than on the guts of getting sober and preventing relapse. The answer we stress for the newcomer is absolute abstinence, helping others, learning the absolute necessity for relying on God and obeying His will. Though this lengthy series will cover books, articles, radio shows, webinars, and conferences, we'd like all the listeners to remember that the initial emphasis of early A.A. was on seeking God's help, focusing on how to help others, and essential elements. 00:10:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill W.,Dr. Bob,Big BookThe newcomer is most likely an alcoholic, an addict, and difinitely "at risk." When they arrive in a structured program, it may involve intervention, detox, couhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/07/18/dick-b-interviews-songwriter-and-muscian-heather-layneReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/07/18/dick-b-interviews-songwriter-and-muscian-heather-layne/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/07/18/dick-b-interviews-songwriter-and-muscian-heather-layneFri, 18 Jul 2014 21:30:00 GMTDick B. interviews songwriter and muscian Heather LayneDick B. interviews songwriter and muscian Heather Layne. 00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics AnonymousDick B. interviews songwriter and muscian Heather Layne.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/03/17/dick-b-discusses-the-purpose-of-the-redesign-of-dickbcomReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/03/17/dick-b-discusses-the-purpose-of-the-redesign-of-dickbcom/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/03/17/dick-b-discusses-the-purpose-of-the-redesign-of-dickbcomMon, 17 Mar 2014 04:00:00 GMTDick B. discusses the purpose of the redesign of DickB.comDick B.'s main website is www.dickb.com. It was established November 18, 1995. The basic design has been the same for many years. But the information investigated, published, and disseminated has grown into huge volumes of valuable historical points. Much has been learned along the way, and much more has been discovered. And the key today is to present this material in an organized, categorized fashion that not only reflects our research and results, but also moves the A.A. picture from its earliest beginnings to the present day. And that enables the suffering afflicted and affected to utilize all of the valuable insights, and not just a cherry-picked basket of speculative ideas. Tonight's program will provide with a brief introduction to the redesigned DickB.com website as newly framed and formatted. It will tell you, in orderly fashion, some of the major historical landmarks along the A.A. path to recovery. It will show you the major changes in the recovery program. And it will make clear how the lessons and successes of what we call "old-school" A.A. can--if learned and applied--enhance the rates of recovery, curb recidivism, and permit spiritual progress in today's scene. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill W,Dr Bob,Twelve StepsDick B.'s main website is www.dickb.com. It was established November 18, 1995. The basic design has been the same for many years. But the information investigathttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/02/17/dick-b-thanks-supportive-christian-recovery-leadersReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/02/17/dick-b-thanks-supportive-christian-recovery-leaders/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/02/17/dick-b-thanks-supportive-christian-recovery-leadersMon, 17 Feb 2014 04:00:00 GMTDick B. thanks supportive Christian Recovery leadersThis evening's broadcast is a "Thank you!" to our Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ. As many of you know, we have been very deeply involved in research and preparation of scripts and an accompanying guidebook for our upcoming video class: "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story." We haven't forgotten prayer or God's promises or the support of friends. In fact, the mail has been filled with support this month coming from an Episcopal priest, a physician, a Rhode Island well-wisher, a Harvard professor, a zealous alcohol and drug counselor (a major donor), and several Christian churches who know what we do, are recovery oriented, and think well of Christian recovery efforts. As today arrived along with another welcome check, we decided to mention to our listeners the kind of recovery support we are receiving from some named benefactor sources. And shortly follow up with a number of programs that have also helped us in our wor. We do this because, when we trust God, seek and ask His wisdom, the source of the abundance is reliable, welcome, and the cause for rejoicing. So join us this evening in thanking the churches and pastors and leaders we mention. There are many more. But these deserve special mention right now. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholic Anonymous,AA history,Bill W,12 Steps,The Big BookThis evening's broadcast is a "Thank you!" to our Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ. As many of you know, we have been very deeply involved in researchttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/02/09/dick-b-gives-another-preview-of-the-rest-of-the-story-coming-soonReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/02/09/dick-b-gives-another-preview-of-the-rest-of-the-story-coming-soon/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/02/09/dick-b-gives-another-preview-of-the-rest-of-the-story-coming-soonSun, 09 Feb 2014 05:30:00 GMTDick B. gives another preview of "the rest of the story" coming soonTis the season to get serious, to get informed, to help others with the rest of the A.A. story. A.A. really came from a rich history--founded much on the early lives and learning of the first three AAs and particularly its cofounders Bill W. and Dr. Bob. 24 years of research, and thousands of phone calls, website visits, emails and personal visits have made clear the hunger of two groups for the real history--the rest of the story about A.A. Books have not cut it. Articles have not cut it. Films about Bill W., or Bill and Dr. Bob; plays about the two founders. Even the secluded gatherings of archivists and history buffs have still left the gaping hole. Tonight we will just brush up a preview of the  latest segments of our 6 or 8 videos and accompanying guidebook on "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story." This is just one part, but it's the one that will emerge on video in just a few weeks. The part we will preview for you tonight is the Vermont roots, the evangelists, the YMCA, the rescue missions, Christian Endeavor, and the Yale Lectures of 1945 that make the message so important. Our history was hardly about a higher power of light bulbs. It was a history of how early AAs got sober based on years of successful prior heritage. 00:28:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill W,The Big Book,12 StepsTis the season to get serious, to get informed, to help others with the rest of the A.A. story. A.A. really came from a rich history--founded much on the earlyhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/02/01/dick-b-discusses-the-introduction-to-his-forthcoming-video-seriesReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/02/01/dick-b-discusses-the-introduction-to-his-forthcoming-video-series/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/02/01/dick-b-discusses-the-introduction-to-his-forthcoming-video-seriesSat, 01 Feb 2014 04:00:00 GMTDick B. discusses the Introduction to his forthcoming video seriesTonight's radio show brings us to the brink of filming of the introductory video in our forthcoming "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story" class. In the three shows, we gave you a preview of those parts of the class that show how much is missing from the details about how the first three AAs got sober, the simplicity of their actions, and the astonishing success of their efforts. This was just to give you a taste of one of the many parts of our history that are really beyond the knowledge or experience of the newcomer who still suffers. And the main purpose of  the class is not to write just another "total history" of A.A. or a series of minor snippets of history that leave out some vital helps for the newcomer. Tonight's show looks into why our new historical account of "the rest of the story" is so important at this stage of A.A. history. It will also show you that a ship without a full complement of equipment is like a ship without a rudder engaged in a meandering voyage. It will give you a taste of a great many important historical helps that have been ignored, omitted, or forgotten up to this point. And it will provide you with some of "the rest of the story" which is really the portion most needed by books, articles, conferences, speakers, sponsors, and the still-suffering newcomer. We note that today's A.A. has at least five different types of programs, because few recognize either that fact or the difference in approach. Because few try to utilize and harmonize the effective parts that are virtually unknown. And because we believe from the thousands of phone calls, emails, and conversations we have had over the past 24 years of researching A.A.'s history that the cause of helping to cure the still-suffering newcomer is best be served when the full complement of historical truths and approaches is restored to view. 00:28:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Big Book,12 Steps,Bill WTonight's radio show brings us to the brink of filming of the introductory video in our forthcoming "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of thttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/01/31/dick-b-discusses-aa-number-three-akron-attorney-bill-dReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/01/31/dick-b-discusses-aa-number-three-akron-attorney-bill-d/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/01/31/dick-b-discusses-aa-number-three-akron-attorney-bill-dFri, 31 Jan 2014 04:00:00 GMTDick B. discusses AA Number Three, Akron attorney Bill D.My son Ken and I are preparing a class titled "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story." And the "rest of the story" may surprise you when you see how much information has simply not reached AAs or the general public about Alcoholics Anonymous, its roots, its succession of programs, the content of those programs, the reason for their successes, and changes in A.A. itself. The current three radio shows are about A.A.'s first historical epoch--the period when the first three AAs got sober before there were any 12 Steps, 12 Traditions, Big Books, war stories, or meetings like those today. We will show you the similarity of actions taken by the first three AAs and the useful picture they provide as to how the original, simple, effective A.A. ideas can be applied in recovery today. Our three presentations are of how AA #1, Bill W., got sober (something we have already presented); how AA #2, Dr. Bob, got sober (also presented); and how AA #3, Akron attorney Bill D., got sober. Tonight, we discuss Bill D.'s story. AA # 3's story is important for at least two major reasons. First, because Bill D.'s release from an Akron hospital on July 4, 1935, "a free man" represented the first success of the original program Bill W. and Dr. Bob began developing that summer. Second, because it marked the founding of the first A.A. group in the world, Akron #1. After presenting Bill D.'s story, I will review the techniques the three pioneers used, and show how they rested primarily on admission that they were licked, determination to quit and do whatever it took to accomplish that, a firm decision to entrust their lives to the care and direction of their Creator, taking their basic ideas from the Bible, and then reaching out wherever needed to those still suffering from alcoholism. Here we go! 00:25:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill D,12 Steps,the Big BookMy son Ken and I are preparing a class titled "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story." And the "rest of the story" may surprise yohttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/01/30/dick-b-gives-another-preview-of-our-forthcoming-historical-video-seriesReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/01/30/dick-b-gives-another-preview-of-our-forthcoming-historical-video-series/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/01/30/dick-b-gives-another-preview-of-our-forthcoming-historical-video-seriesThu, 30 Jan 2014 04:00:00 GMTDick B. gives another preview of our forthcoming historical video seriesTonight, we will delve into the proposed content of our upcoming video series, "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story." Right now, we are developing an outline for the A.A. history presentations and the format for an appealing Introduction showing what has been missed and what we will supply. Yesterday, we proposed that there were five epochs in A.A. history from A.A.'s founding in 1935 to Bill W.'s publishing of "the new version of the program" in the Big Book in 1939. The first epoch deals with how the first three AAs got sober before there were any 12 Steps, 12 Traditions, Big Books, war stories, or meetings like those today. We also acquainted you with the missing facts about how A.A. Number One, Bill W., got sober and how that information can be used to help others. This evening, we will deal with the missing facts about how A.A. Number Two, Dr. Bob, got sober and how that information can be helpful in the same way. The following show will have to do with how A.A. Number Three, Akron attorney Bill D., got sober and what his statements contribute to the healing process. If time permits, we will introduce you to all five A.A. History Epochs that will be covered in these shows and in our videos. In brief, they are: (1) How the first three got sober. (2) The original Akron A.A. "Christian fellowship" program. (3) The so-called six "word-of-mouth ideas" Bill claimed were in use before he wrote the 12 Steps. (4) Bill's "new version of the program," the 12 Steps, published in the Big Book. (5) The very significant compromise in language referring to God made in Steps 2, 3, and 11 just before the Big Book was published--a change made by a mere four people, yet attributed to atheists and agnostics. Here come the documentation, footnotes, and facts. 00:28:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill W,12 Steps,The Big BookTonight, we will delve into the proposed content of our upcoming video series, "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story." Right now,http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/01/29/dick-b-speaks-on-aa-history-epochs-1935-to-1939Religionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/01/29/dick-b-speaks-on-aa-history-epochs-1935-to-1939/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2014/01/29/dick-b-speaks-on-aa-history-epochs-1935-to-1939Wed, 29 Jan 2014 04:00:00 GMTDick B. speaks on A.A. History Epochs--1935 to 1939This evening's talk is intended to be a small preview of some of the major content which we will call "the rest of the story" in our forthcoming video series titled "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story." Shortly, we will have completed six videos and an accompanying guidebook that will visually and audibly fill in important blank spots in the recording of A.A. history and the Christian Recovery Movement that has already been done. The gaps have occurred in books, articles, forums, tapes, movies, videos, YouTubes, and other media. Perhaps the gap has occurred because A.A. itself has never claimed to be a research organization. And almost all of its historical literature derives from the writings of Bill Wilson who has been dead for more than 40 years and himself wrote many books and articles covering various ideas he deemed important. This first preview will cover what we call "the rest of the story" as to how Bill Wilson attained sobriety and was able to build the structure of ending drinking by alcoholics, suggesting they rely on the Creator for help, and then arguing persuasively that those who got well immediately put a high priority on helping others get well by the same means. In the ensuing years, A.A. has undergone a number of epochs which expanded or altered the recovery techniques originally used. And we will be handling what might be numbered as five by the time the first edition of A.A.'s Big Book was published in April 1939. The first technique was simply the action taken by the first three AAs at the time when they were relying for answers in the Bible, and had no 12 Steps, no 12 Traditions, no Big Books, no drunkalogs, or meetings (as we know them today). 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA History,12 Steps,Bill W.This evening's talk is intended to be a small preview of some of the major content which we will call "the rest of the story" in our forthcoming video series tihttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/12/25/old-school-recovery-proceedures-that-were-recommended-and-usedReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/12/25/old-school-recovery-proceedures-that-were-recommended-and-used/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/12/25/old-school-recovery-proceedures-that-were-recommended-and-usedWed, 25 Dec 2013 04:00:00 GMTOld School Recovery Proceedures That Were Recommended and UsedAs 2014 nears, I look at 24 years of research and 46 books on the history of A.A. and the Christian Recovery Movement. We've defined the Christian origins of the recovery movement. We've defined the Christian upbringing of A.A. cofounders Bill W. and Dr. Bob. We've related how the first three AAs got sober before there was a Big Book; before there were 12 Steps or 12 Traditions; and before there were drunkalogs or meetings like today's. And we have unearthed the seven principles and 16 practices of the early Akron A.A. "Christian fellowship" founded in 1935. Now we focus on just how the remarkable program of early Akron A.A. put Alcoholics Anonymous on the map with its astonishingly-simple recovery program. Today we look forward. How do we know that suffering souls can recover using the Christian methods of yesteryear. One answer can be found in the observations of how similar the Christian recovery techniques were that preceded the early Akron A. fellowship program. So this evening, we will review with you the comments that recovery experts were making and which have applicability to A.A. then and now. And these are the topics: (1) The five basic ideas that describe the successes of The Salvation Army. (2) The simple recovery steps the first three AAs took. (3) Frank Amos's February 1938, seven-point summary of the early A.A. "Christian fellowship" program in Akron. (4) The six observations of Dr. Silkworth as he described the A.A. ideas for success. (5) Ten elements that can be observed in 12 Step programs today and which will bring "old-school" A.A. techniques back  to the fore to the blessing of all the affected and of the afflicted who still suffer. 00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Old-school recovery,12 Steps,The Big BookAs 2014 nears, I look at 24 years of research and 46 books on the history of A.A. and the Christian Recovery Movement. We've defined the Christian origins of thhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/12/04/dick-b-interviews-author-marty-aReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/12/04/dick-b-interviews-author-marty-a/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/12/04/dick-b-interviews-author-marty-aWed, 04 Dec 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews author Marty A.Our guest today, Marty A., captured my attention when he graciously sent me his book "Once Life Matters: A New Beginning." But it was not just another drunkalog or war story. It describes Marty's unusual musical career, contact with celebrities, ups and downs, and bouts with drugs and alcohol. But its principal appeal is its picture of a cured addict who is an example for thousands of recovered Christians who have emerged from their drug-filled holes, met inspired recovery leaders, focused on prisoners' freedom, and reported dramatic conversions to God through Jesus Christ. Marty's accounts reminded me that Ken and I had the pleasure of befriending Bishop Frank Costantino, a man who emerged from life as a gangster, followed by time in prison, to head up a huge prison relief program. And Frank endorsed and funded several of our books. Marty reminded me of our friend Mickey Evans of Dunklin Memorial Church in Okeechobee. We spent lots of time with Mickey, spoke at meetings with him, and marveled at his success in the swamps bringing men out of prison, into the Bible, and back to families and productive work. We hope Marty will tell us of his family, bumpy career, powerful conversion, and time spent with his sister and a minister friend who led him to be born again. He shows how a New York pastor got him grounded in the Word of God; and how he began attending church and speaking at  youth meetings, and participating in meetings sponsored by Full Gospel Business Men. He  met a supportive police officer before he was sentenced to prison. He sought Frank Costantino's prison ministry; and, in prison, worked with Jews for Jesus and other Christians who wanted better lives. That work brought him to well-known prison ministries like those of Murph the Surf, "Pappy" Eastham, Chuck Colson, and Mickey Evans. Now, take it away Marty. 00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Marty Angelo,The Big Book,12 StepsOur guest today, Marty A., captured my attention when he graciously sent me his book "Once Life Matters: A New Beginning." But it was not just another drunkaloghttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/12/02/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-john-sReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/12/02/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-john-s/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/12/02/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-john-sMon, 02 Dec 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery leader John S.This morning's guest is John S. of Norco, California. John is a long-recovered Christian recovery fellowship leader. And he has been the most successful organizer and perpetuator of James Clubs in the International Christian Recovery Coalition. John attended our May 2009 conference of leaders at Mariners Church Community Center in Irvine, California. And he was among those who had met with a not-unsual barrier from a local 12 Step office trying to block the work of the James Clubs. But John plunged ahead with this effort. He held a large Christian recovery conference at his church in Norco. I have spoken there, and my son Ken has also spoken in Norco. John wrote a manual for James Clubs. And he rested his efforts on the very clear language of A.A. cofounders Bill W. and Dr. Bob that the early AAs believed the answers to their problems were in the Good Book and that they considered Jesus's Sermon on the Mount, the Book of James, and 1 Corinthians 13 to be absolutely essential to their program--a program that was succeeding long before there were any Twelve Steps, Twelve Traditions, Big Books, War Stories, or meetings like those we know today. Bill and Bob had both said that James was their favorite. They both said that the Sermon on the Mount contained the underlying spiritual philosophy of A.A. And the early members wanted to call their Society "The James Club." In Norco, John saw local people growing in number with this concept and also expanding the number of clubs in their churches and in Norco. Today, John will tell you a little about his family, education, airplane activities, recovery efforts, Christian affiliations, and the progress of the James Club movement. John will tell you how they began, grew, expanded, and blessed those who followed the path. Take it away, John. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,The Big Book,12 Steps,The James ClubThis morning's guest is John S. of Norco, California. John is a long-recovered Christian recovery fellowship leader. And he has been the most successful organizhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/12/dick-b-discusses-what-he-means-by-the-rest-of-the-storyReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/12/dick-b-discusses-what-he-means-by-the-rest-of-the-story/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/12/dick-b-discusses-what-he-means-by-the-rest-of-the-storyTue, 12 Nov 2013 04:00:00 GMTDick B. discusses what he means by "The Rest of the Story"Dick B. discusses the meaning and significance of the subtitle of the forthcoming, five-video series "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story."00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill W,The Big Book,12 StepsDick B. discusses the meaning and significance of the subtitle of the forthcoming, five-video series "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest ofhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/10/dick-b-discusses-bill-w-dr-bob-the-cure-of-alcoholismReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/10/dick-b-discusses-bill-w-dr-bob-the-cure-of-alcoholism/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/10/dick-b-discusses-bill-w-dr-bob-the-cure-of-alcoholismSun, 10 Nov 2013 21:30:00 GMTDick B. discusses Bill W., Dr. Bob, & the Cure of AlcoholismDick B. discusses the introduction to five-video series "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story" and the accompanying Study Guide.00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill W,The Big Book,12 StepsDick B. discusses the introduction to five-video series "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story" and the accompanying Study Guide.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/08/dick-b-says-more-about-the-new-video-series-study-guideReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/08/dick-b-says-more-about-the-new-video-series-study-guide/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/08/dick-b-says-more-about-the-new-video-series-study-guideFri, 08 Nov 2013 04:00:00 GMTDick B. says more about the new video series Study GuideDick B. say more about the Study Guide for the forthcoming video series "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story."00:28:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill W,The Big Book,12 StepsDick B. say more about the Study Guide for the forthcoming video series "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story."http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/07/dick-b-continues-discussing-the-video-series-study-guideReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/07/dick-b-continues-discussing-the-video-series-study-guide/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/07/dick-b-continues-discussing-the-video-series-study-guideThu, 07 Nov 2013 04:00:00 GMTDick B. continues discussing the video series Study Guide Dick B. continues discussing the Study Guide for the forthcoming video series: "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story" by Dick B. and Ken B.00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill W Dr Bob and the Cure of Alcoholism,the Big Book,12 StepsDick B. continues discussing the Study Guide for the forthcoming video series: "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story" by Dick B.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/06/dick-b-discusses-bill-w-dr-bob-the-cure-of-alcoholismReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/06/dick-b-discusses-bill-w-dr-bob-the-cure-of-alcoholism/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/11/06/dick-b-discusses-bill-w-dr-bob-the-cure-of-alcoholismWed, 06 Nov 2013 04:30:00 GMTDick B. discusses Bill W., Dr. Bob & the Cure of AlcoholismDick B. discusses the Study Guide for the forthcoming video series, "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story" by Dick B. and Ken B.00:27:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill W,The Big Book,12 StepsDick B. discusses the Study Guide for the forthcoming video series, "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: The Rest of the Story" by Dick B. and Ken B.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/23/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-sarah-jean-kReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/23/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-sarah-jean-k/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/23/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-sarah-jean-kWed, 23 Oct 2013 21:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery worker Sarah Jean K. I have been looking forward to this morning's interview ever since I met Sarah Jean at "The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference," Sept. 6-7, 2013, in Portland, Maine. Sarah Jean had just become married to Christian A.A. leader Tim K. from Colorado. The wedding date was September 1st. The two had met at an A.A. conference. Both are devoted Christians and Alcoholics Anonymous servants. Just after the Maine Conference, the pair joined us on a very special visit to Dr. Bob's birthplace in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. Dr. Bob was Tim's great grand sponsor in A.A., and the couple have taken a great interest in disseminating the history of Dr. Bob's role in recovery. Tim currently heads a Came to Believe Retreat in Colorado.   But today is about Sarah Jean. We'd like to hear about her family, her home, her education, her religious background, her present employment, her A.A. work, and her future plans. She has an excellent education and aspires to being a teacher. Husband Tim works for a Christian radio enterprise, and the two are well-suited to carry the message of the International Christian Recovery Coalition in which both  are  participants. I look forward to having the same kind of one-on-one talk with Sarah Jean that I was privileged to have in Portland, Maine, and in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. I hope she will favor us with a word or two about her addiction background. And now,  take it away, Sarah Jean. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Came to Believe Retreats,The Big Book,12 StepsI have been looking forward to this morning's interview ever since I met Sarah Jean at "The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference," Sept.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/18/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-matt-pierceReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/18/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-matt-pierce/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/18/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-matt-pierceFri, 18 Oct 2013 21:30:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery leader Matt Pierce For several years, Golden Hills Community Church in Brentwood, (Northern) California, has substantially helped our efforts to make the recovery community aware of the role that God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible played in the founding and development of Alcoholics Anonymous, and the role that they can play in recovery today. When we first held an International Christian Recovery Coalition conference at Golden Hills, we had the great pleasure of meeting and working with its Recovery Pastor, Matt Pierce. And Matt has encouraged, entertained, and catalyzed recovery outreach in his church, in the Twelve Step community, and with the afflicted and affected. Today's interview of Recovery Pastor Matt Pierce allows us to see another big step forward by Golden Hills. For some time, Matt has been occupied with acquiring a property in Rescue, California, a suitably named unincorporated community in El Dorado County; and getting permits for "Bethesda Village," a long-term (one year) program and community for Christ-centered healing and discipleship at that location. The program has employed a fine recovery director and will be holding a Bethesda Harvest Fundraiser on November 2. This morning, I won't attempt to describe Bethesda Village further, as I know that Pastor Matt would like to provide all the details, progress, and plans for this facility, what its program will be, and what it is aiming for in helping those suffering from alcoholism and addictions and from the effect of those maladies on the community and others. It is a pleasure to turn this program over to Pastor Matt right now for a real look-see at the program Golden Hills Community Church is launching in the recovery world. Take it away, Matt!   00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bethesda Village,The Big Book,12 StepsFor several years, Golden Hills Community Church in Brentwood, (Northern) California, has substantially helped our efforts to make the recovery community awarehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/15/dick-b-discusses-d-j-defoes-1939-interview-of-dr-bobReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/15/dick-b-discusses-d-j-defoes-1939-interview-of-dr-bob/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/15/dick-b-discusses-d-j-defoes-1939-interview-of-dr-bobTue, 15 Oct 2013 21:00:00 GMTDick B. discusses D. J. Defoe's 1939 interview of Dr. BobThe basic topic of our four recent conferences in Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona, was the question: "Why did early A.A. succeed"--both in Akron and in Cleveland. And the most appropriate answer was given by A.A. cofounder Dr. Bob in an interview he gave to D. J. Defoe titled "I Saw Religion Remake a Drunkard" that was published in the September 1939 issue of "Your Faith" Magazine, shortly after the Big Book was published in April 1939 and the third Alcoholics Anonymous group in the world was founded in Cleveland by Dr. Bob's sponsee Clarence S. on May 11, 1939. On today's radio show, I'll read the interview with Dr. Bob (called "Dr. X" in the interview), as I did in Arizona. This interview was mis-characterized in DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers as an "article" that had been "written by" Dr. Bob. It was "unknown" in A.A. history circles until recently, when an A.A. archivist made it available to the www.Silkworth.net Web site for publication. And you can now read this interview with Dr. Bob on my blogs, in my "Dick B. FYI Newsletter," and in recent articles I have published on the Internet. And now, here's D. J. Defoe's interview of Dr. Bob.00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Dr Bob,The Big Book,12 StepsThe basic topic of our four recent conferences in Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona, was the question: "Why did early A.A. succeed"--both in Akron and in Cleveland. Ahttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/08/dick-b-interviews-noted-author-speaker-bill-iReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/08/dick-b-interviews-noted-author-speaker-bill-i/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/08/dick-b-interviews-noted-author-speaker-bill-iTue, 08 Oct 2013 22:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews noted author & speaker Bill I.Today's guest is a noted author and speaker who has been in touch with us for a good many years. We were delighted when he recently attended "The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference," Sept. 6-7, 2013, in Portland, Maine. Bill had a very special event in his life on the Appalachian Trail which has given rise to much of his writing and speaking. Bill will now tell us a little bit about his background, his connection with the International Christian Recovery Coalition, and what activities he is currently pursuing. Take it away, Bill.00:28:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,The International Christian Recovery Coalition,12 Steps,The Big BookToday's guest is a noted author and speaker who has been in touch with us for a good many years. We were delighted when he recently attended "The First Internathttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/07/dick-b-shares-on-upcoming-old-school-aa-leadership-meetingsReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/07/dick-b-shares-on-upcoming-old-school-aa-leadership-meetings/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/07/dick-b-shares-on-upcoming-old-school-aa-leadership-meetingsMon, 07 Oct 2013 04:30:00 GMTDick B. shares on upcoming old school AA leadership meetings This "Christian Recovery Radio with Dick B." show broadcast is coming to you on Sunday evening, October 6, 2013. My son Ken and I have been invited to be the speakers at a series of four meetings in Arizona next week--two in Phoenix, and two in Tucson. Luncheon meetings will be held in Phoenix and Tucson, respectively, on Friday, October 11, and Saturday, October 12. Evening meetings on those two dates, respectively, will consist of public workshops. Tonight, I'll preview what we will be presenting to leaders and discussing at lunch. The group will be Pastors and recovery field Professionals--called an "Old-School Christian Recovery Leaders Conference." The topic: "Why Early A.A. Succeeded: The Path They Thoroughly Followed and Rarely Failed." There will be an open discussion on how to expand the Christian message in the Recovery Community. As speakers, our task will be to introduce for discussion the subjects of First Century Christianity, the Christian techniques of the early Akron A.A. Christian fellowship, the basic biblical ideas from which A.A. fashioned its original program, and how a new, strong Christian Recovery Movement is now arising across the United States and other countries. We train the trainers. In Arizona, we will build on the basic ideas A.A. took from the Bible and upon the unique and thorough Arch Builders Guide now being launched there. We maintain that progress in this kind of recovery will not take place until AAs expect speakers at their meetings to discuss spiritual subjects and their victories rather than recount war stories. Sponsors need to take the same approach. And newcomers need orientation meetings telling them what to look for and expect in A.A. And now as much of the preview as time permits. 00:25:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,old school AA leadership meetings,The Big Book,12 StepsThis "Christian Recovery Radio with Dick B." show broadcast is coming to you on Sunday evening, October 6, 2013. My son Ken and I have been invited to be the shttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/05/dick-b-discusses-bill-w-dr-bob-the-cure-of-alcoholismReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/05/dick-b-discusses-bill-w-dr-bob-the-cure-of-alcoholism/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/05/dick-b-discusses-bill-w-dr-bob-the-cure-of-alcoholismSat, 05 Oct 2013 04:30:00 GMTDick B. discusses Bill W., Dr. Bob & the Cure of AlcoholismTonight's interview will discuss a new, joint effort of authors and historians of Alcoholics Anonymous Dick B. and Ken B. As a result of their September 2013 research tour of St. Johnsbury, Vermont (where A.A. cofounder Dr. Bob was born and raised), they are now in the process of producing a series of five DVD's with the overall title "Bill W., Dr. Bob, and the Cure of Alcoholism: 'The Rest of the Story.'" This evening's interview represents our first announcement on this show and presents an overview of the authors' latest Alcoholics Anonymous history and Christian Recovery Movement major project. The series will consist of five videos and a printed guidebook on the subject. The impetus for such a work involves several factors. First, every year of the joint historical and publishing work of Dick B. and Ken B. has produced new historical research, insight, findings, analysis, and publications. Dick B. has already published 46 titles and over 1,500 articles on A.A. history and the Christian Recovery Movement. And these have been supplemented with the ongoing publication of information on Dick B.'s several blogs, Facebook page, Twitter page, WordPress blog, YouTube channel, and audio talks. And with information published on Cyber Recovery Social, Daily Recovery, Tumbler, LinkedIn, Hub, and In the Rooms. Moreover, in March 2010, New Life Spirit Recovery, Inc.--a first rate recovery, counselor training, and alcohol-addiction Christian treatment center In Huntington Beach, California--graciously videotaped our "Introductory Foundations for Christian Recovery" class--a four-DVD series. That class has been used and seen in several top-notch Christian treatment and Christian Recovery Fellowship programs. An up-to-date presentation is now called for. And Dick will give that presentation in this evening's interview. 00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Cure of alcoholism,The Big Book,12 StepsTonight's interview will discuss a new, joint effort of authors and historians of Alcoholics Anonymous Dick B. and Ken B. As a result of their September 2013 rehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/01/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-gary-aReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/01/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-gary-a/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/10/01/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-gary-aTue, 01 Oct 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery worker Gary A.Today's guest is Gary A. from Connecticut. We were delighted to have Gary serve as one of the experienced speakers who appeared at The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference in Portland, Maine. Gary has a long track record in the recovery field, in counseling, in work with prisons, and in working with veterans. And he will tell us about that today. Gary has devoted long hours and extensive effort to assembling and producing historical materials very important to our efforts to analyze and publicize the real Christian roots of "old-school" A.A. At the Maine Conference, Gary presented an excellent PowerPoint presentation of the history of early A.A. It was accompanied by music, photographs, audios, and appropriate explanatory points. This was and is one of the first accurate, relevant presentations of the real A.A. spiritual roots details. And Gary has taken his presentation to many different areas in Connecticut, acquainting viewers with spiritual materials they just haven't seen presented before. We believe this is the wave of the future as far as galvanizing speakers, sponsors, leaders, and recovery workers to acquaint AAs and others suffering from alcoholism and addiction with where they really came from in terms of the role that God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible played in A.A.'s origins, its history, the Christian upbringing of A.A.'s cofounders, and the original Akron A.A. pioneer fellowship principles and practices that achieved great successes beginning with A.A.'s founding in 1935. We look forward to hearing Gary tell us today of his background, work, presentation, and plans for making the facts known. And Gary has authored two books and a third is on the way. Take it away, Gary.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Christian recovery,The Big Book,12 StepsToday's guest is Gary A. from Connecticut. We were delighted to have Gary serve as one of the experienced speakers who appeared at The First International Alcohhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/26/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-tony-kReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/26/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-tony-k/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/26/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-tony-kThu, 26 Sep 2013 22:30:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery worker Tony K. Today Dick B. interviews Christian recovery worker Tony K. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Christian recovery,The Big Book,12 StepsToday Dick B. interviews Christian recovery worker Tony K.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/25/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-rusty-w-1Religionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/25/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-rusty-w-1/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/25/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-rusty-w-1Wed, 25 Sep 2013 22:30:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery leader Rusty W.Our guest today is our long-time friend, and conference recorder and taper, Rusty W., from Peoria, Arizona. Rusty has long owned and managed Smile God Loves You tapes, and its active and informative Web site. He has attended and recorded a number of our own conferences--particularly those in California. And Rusty has long made available our 12-Step materials at conferences which he has recorded. As Rusty has traveled the country recording various 12-Step conferences over the years, he has occasionally encountered the mythical idea held by some 12-Steppers that one can offer for sale some 12-Step-related materials at conferences, but not others! Perhaps this attempt by some to restrict the reading and listening of those who need to know is on its way out. Because many of our fellowships are learning the respected Traditions about listening to a loving God as He may express Himself--and doing it first; about the lack of governors or censors in our A.A. structure and membership, and about the importance of taking desired objectives to an informed group conscience before trying to control meetings. Fortunately, Rusty is respectful of the importance to recovery of A.A. history; is respectful of the roles actually played by God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible in the origins and founding and content of 12 Step meetings; and is mindful of the need of our fellowship to hear and know all of the great A.A. story--including what we like to call today "the rest of the story." And we look forward to hearing more from him today about the activities of his wife and himself, their faith work, and the events he attends and records. They have a large and faithful following. And now--take it away, Rusty.00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Christian Recovery,The Big Book,12 StepsOur guest today is our long-time friend, and conference recorder and taper, Rusty W., from Peoria, Arizona. Rusty has long owned and managed Smile God Loves Youhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/24/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-robb-hReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/24/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-robb-h/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/24/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-robb-hTue, 24 Sep 2013 20:30:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery leader Robb H.Today's guest is Robb H., M.D. Robb is a neuro-scientist, specialist in treating impaired professionals with various addictive problems, and a particular emphasis on preventing the relapses that so often follow the treatment of these individuals. We have been in communication with Robb for a number of months now. He just spent a week with us on Maui, telling us what he knows in his area of expertise and soaking up as much information as possible about the history, Christian backdrop, hands-on 12 Step work with alcoholics and addicts, and A.A. techniques for working with them. Following his visit with us on Maui, Robb came to the very recent First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference in Portland, Maine. He there spoke to the participants on his specialty and continued to soak up the practical aspects of A.A. recovery he found there. Robb also joined us in an intense visit to the heartland of Alcoholics Anonymous spirituality--St. Johnsbury, Vermont, the boyhood home and source of the Christian upbringing of A.A. cofounder Dr. Robert H. Smith. Robb was with us almost every moment of our many meetings in St. Johnsbury. And now he will tell you about his own background, work, practice, interests, and plans for the future. Take it away Robb.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,addiction medicine,Big Book,12 StepsToday's guest is Robb H., M.D. Robb is a neuro-scientist, specialist in treating impaired professionals with various addictive problems, and a particular emphashttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/23/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-monty-mReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/23/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-monty-m/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/23/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-monty-mMon, 23 Sep 2013 22:30:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian recovery leader Monty M.Our special guest today is Monty M. of Take12Radio.com. He has long supported our work, produced radio shows about us, and graciously accepted our enthusiasm.00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Take 12 Radio,Recovery radio,12 StepsOur special guest today is Monty M. of Take12Radio.com. He has long supported our work, produced radio shows about us, and graciously accepted our enthusiasm.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/22/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-sandy-rReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/22/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-sandy-r/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/09/22/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-sandy-rSun, 22 Sep 2013 22:30:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery leader Sandy R.This is our first interview in a number of days and follows our lengthy International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference and meetings in Portland Maine, St. Johnsbury Vermont, and South San Francisco. But it introduces the first of several new points of emphasis in the Christian recovery arena. For one thing, our speaker is one of several women Christian recovery leaders who will be sharing in the days to come. For another, it suggests the growing interest in healing by the power of God by people suffering from a variety of addictive problems other than alcohol and drugs. For still another, it highlights a trend of larger conferences that then split up into small groups that focus on particular areas of suffering--whether alcoholism, codependency, sexual problems, family difficulties, and items such as gambling, debt, and smoking. I mention all this because our guest is a very special one who will tell us about her bringing a large group of women and friends to our conference--a group consisting largely of those with overeating problems. They too look to the power and love of God for victory. She brought her entourage from Rhde Island and has supported our Christian recovery history emphasis for quite some time. She wil give us a unique perspective on her own life, her Christian faith in help from God, her recognition of the 12 Step programs, and her evangelistic zeal. She is Sandy R., and now we will let her tell you her story.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoChristian Recovery,AA history,addictions and women,The Big Book,12 StepsThis is our first interview in a number of days and follows our lengthy International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference and meetings in Portland Maine, Sthttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/30/dick-b-gives-a-brief-sketch-of-early-akron-aa-historyReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/30/dick-b-gives-a-brief-sketch-of-early-akron-aa-history/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/30/dick-b-gives-a-brief-sketch-of-early-akron-aa-historyFri, 30 Aug 2013 03:00:00 GMTDick B. gives a brief sketch of early Akron A.A. historyTonight's program includes another reason for your attending "The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference," Sept. 6-7, 2013, in Portland, Maine. A strong request has been made that we provide on video a history of early Akron A.A. This will be produced in three stages: (1) tonight's sketch of the history; (2) a presentation at the Portland, Maine, A.A. history conference; and (3) a package of one or more videos that will feature my son Ken and me explaining the history and showing you some of the books and other materials that can be and have been used to document the history. And now, for tonight's summary.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Early Akron AA history,12 Steps,The Big BookTonight's program includes another reason for your attending "The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference," Sept. 6-7, 2013, in Portland, Mahttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/29/dick-b-discusses-applying-old-school-aa-in-recovery-todayReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/29/dick-b-discusses-applying-old-school-aa-in-recovery-today/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/29/dick-b-discusses-applying-old-school-aa-in-recovery-todayThu, 29 Aug 2013 04:30:00 GMTDick B. discusses applying old-school A.A. in recovery today Tonight's show previews a small part of the subject matter at The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference being held September 6-7 in Portland, Maine. Many fine speakers are volunteering to inform participants on a myriad of recovery topics. Topics such as Quiet Time, the Twelve Steps, the Vermont life of A.A. cofounders Bill W. and Dr. Bob, the "Came to Believe Retreats" for AAs (founded by Clarence Snyder, medical techniques for preventing relapses, and others. Participants must register, but admission to the conference is free. This evening I will be covering one of the main topics--What learning "old-school" Akron A.A.'s program, technique, and resources can accomplish today. We will look at: (1) What "old-school" Akron A.A. is not. (2) How "old-school' Akron A.A. advocates are trying to enhance your recovery today by their talks. (3) What  "old-school" Akron A.A. proponents today research and urge fellow-members to learn and apply. (4) Reflections and suggestions about "old-school" pioneer Akron A.A. that could help you. (5) Helpful reflections about A.A.'s diverse recovery arena. (6) Adequate A.A. teaching begins only with good teachers, good texts, good sponsors, and good speakers. (7) Your decision to work with others, carrying a helpful message about these points. (8) Suggested resources you and your cadre can acquire, study, and use. (9) My own suggestions for planning your purchases, studies, and future service and glorification of God, and service to our fellow men. Come join us in Maine, share, learn, and pass along solid application of A.A.'s rich history today.   00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,AA history conference,12 Steps,The Big BookTonight's show previews a small part of the subject matter at The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference being held September 6-7 in Portlhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/10/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-dale-mReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/10/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-dale-m/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/10/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-dale-mSat, 10 Aug 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery leader Dale M. Dale Marsh, Recovery Pastor of the Oroville Church of the Nazarene in Oroville, California, is a particularly welcome guest today. And let me tell you just how dynamic his outreach to alcoholics and drug addicts has been on the California scene. First, Dale was a successful businessman who had recovered from alcoholism, was intense in his desire to help the afflicted recover through reliance on God, and had long been connected with his church's efforts along those lines. Second, Dale made a decision to estabish the best Christian recovery fellowship possible in his church, his community, and the recovery arena. He and his wife traveled to Rock Church in San Diego and to The Crossing Church in Costa Mesa--two of the most successful Christian recovery efforts we know of. Both of them suggested that he also contact us; and we met with him in California. Dale soon began working to become a Recovery Pastor and an ordained minister in his church. He immediately began contacting International Christian Recovery Coalition leaders all over California to help us get them networking together. He soon became a leader in our Speaker's Bureau and has since been invited by a number of California Christian recovery leaders to speak to or preach at their churches. He has assisted us in a number of our travels. He has sparked up the Serenity Group program of his church. And his most notable success has been as a spokesman to the communities where, whether at A.A., N.A., treatment, prisons, or elsewhere, there is great hunger for information about why early A.A. succeeded and how to apply its astonishing Christian techniques in today's 12 Step fellowships--using Conference-approved literature to attract those in, interested in, or looking for facts in today's 12 Step Fellowships. I don't need to tell you the subjects Dale will cover today because he has many messages to convey. So, with that, Dale, please tell us about all your activities today. 00:27:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Serenity Group,The Big Book,12 StepsDale Marsh, Recovery Pastor of the Oroville Church of the Nazarene in Oroville, California, is a particularly welcome guest today. And let me tell you just howhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/08/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-joe-fureyReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/08/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-joe-furey/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/08/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-joe-fureyThu, 08 Aug 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery leader Joe FureyToday's interview with Pastor Joe Furey is a particular honor for Ken and myself. Joe is the pastor at His Place Church in Westminster, California. We've frequently been in touch with him since our first Nationwide Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference in Irvine, California, in May of 2009. And Joe's growth as both pastor and Christian recovery leader has been steady and productive as we've come to know him. First, we talked with him and his friends about his coming on board in our International Christian Recovery Coalition as a participant, which he did. Then, before the His Place fellowship in Huntington Beach merged with another larger facility, His place hosted two large gatherings where we addressed eager alcoholics and addicts, had a feed provided by David R.--a restauranter in Costa Mesa, and heard Joe Speak. His work has been ably assisted by two other church members--Jonny Ray B. and Roger M. Next, we learned that His Place was having a hugely-successful A.A. meeting each Friday where the announcement was "We have two texts here. One is the Bible. The other is the Big Book." And unfettered and lively Christian recovery sharing takes place. Next, Joe told us that he wanted to support our work once his merger with the larger church was complete. And that happened. The new, much larger facility is still called His Place, but is located in Westminster, California. And Joe's church then hosted a large International Christian Recovoery Coalition Conference there--providing an abundance of snacks, and eliciting some great sharing by Christian recovery leaders from all over the United States. Joe has had his personal experiences with drugs and alcohol, and I'll let him tell you as much as he wishes about that. Meanwhile, I look forward to his telling us right now how a little fellowship has grown to a major magnet that attracts other ministers and fellowships. It's all yours, Joe.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Joe Furey,The Big Book,12 StepsToday's interview with Pastor Joe Furey is a particular honor for Ken and myself. Joe is the pastor at His Place Church in Westminster, California. We've frequehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/07/ken-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-doug-nunesReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/07/ken-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-doug-nunes/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/08/07/ken-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-doug-nunesWed, 07 Aug 2013 22:30:00 GMTKen B. interviews Christian Recovery leader Doug NunesDoug Nunes, who recently became the Recovery Pastor at Calvary Church Los Gatos (in California), shares about his Christian Recovery outreach efforts in the San Jose area and beyond.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Doug Nunes,The Big Book,12 StepsDoug Nunes, who recently became the Recovery Pastor at Calvary Church Los Gatos (in California), shares about his Christian Recovery outreach efforts in the Sanhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/30/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-gary-agnewReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/30/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-gary-agnew/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/30/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-gary-agnewTue, 30 Jul 2013 20:30:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery leader Gary AgnewOver my years of travel, research, and talks, I have met many experienced AAs and Christian recovery leaders and workers; and featuring these folks on radio is a top priority. Today's guest is Gary Agnew of Columbia, Connecticut. Gary is now retired, but his resume is long and admirable. He is the author of two books and of a power point presentation on the history of A.A. He is a participant in the International Chrsitian Recovery Coalition, and will be attending "The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference" in Portland, Maine, September 6-7, 2013. Gary is acutely aware that there is a Christian Recovery Movement afoot and is certainly a part of it. He handled a ministry at My Father's House for 5 1/2 years. He has been a supervisor for the staff of counselors at a Veterans Administration facility. He currently does outreach work in the prison system; and that is his passion now that he is retired. For many years now, Gary has been in touch with me, has purchased and read all of my books, has actively shared his viewpoints on Christian recovery from alcoholism and addiction, and has supported our efforts to disseminate the facts about the role of God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible in early A.A.'s astonishing successes, and the role they can play today for those who want and need God's help. It will be a pleasure to hear Gary tell us the facts. Take it away, Gary..00:28:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAuthor Gary Agnew,Alcoholics Anonymous,Christian Recovery,VA recovery story,AA historyOver my years of travel, research, and talks, I have met many experienced AAs and Christian recovery leaders and workers; and featuring these folks on radio ishttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/29/dick-b-discusses-the-neglected-aa-sponsorReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/29/dick-b-discusses-the-neglected-aa-sponsor/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/29/dick-b-discusses-the-neglected-aa-sponsorMon, 29 Jul 2013 04:30:00 GMTDick B. discusses the neglected A.A. sponsor   Today's radio program is all about sponsors and sponsorship. Its subject will be presented also at our conferences this year in: (1) Portland, Maine; (2) the San Francisco Bay region; (3) the Phoenix and Tucson areas of Arizona; and (4) Roseville, California. There is a recognized need for solid guidance today on learning the 12 Steps, on how to take them, and on how to take others through them. Also on why one needs a sponsor, and on what the sponsor needs to know. Then on what the sponsor should pass along to sponsees. And finally what the newcomer needs to hear from his sponsor and his Fellowship, and then learn. Today, a potential sponsor has many tools that did not exist when A.A. was founded. But the early Akron AAs had Dr. Bob, his wife Anne, Henrietta Seiberling, T. Henry Williams and his wife Clarace, and later, Clarence Snyder. Dr. Bob was their leader. All were Christians and Bible students. All knew their Bibles and much of the Oxford group literature and Christian literature and devotionals they used. Bill W. was thoroughly trained by the Episcopal Rector Sam Shoemaker. And all were highly intelligent teachers and guides. But a great deal of the Akron program and  its origins and ingredients of recovery are virtually unknown today. The Bible has vanished as the standard. The records are there. We've written about them. But most potential sponsors know little if anything about them. Today's talk will explore many qualities, training items, and needs that sponsorship entails; and we believe, if followed, they will greatly enhance the knowledge and success of the fellowship, groups, meetings, sponsors, newcomers, and speakers. 00:26:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA history,Alcoholics Anonymous,sponsorship,the Big Book,12 StepsToday's radio program is all about sponsors and sponsorship. Its subject will be presented also at our conferences this year in: (1) Portland, Maine; (2) thhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/27/look-what-author-dick-b-foundReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/27/look-what-author-dick-b-found/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/27/look-what-author-dick-b-foundSat, 27 Jul 2013 04:00:00 GMTLook What Author Dick B. Found Today's radio show will give you a large number of historical snippets that author Dick B. has unearthed and published on the history of Alcoholics Anonymous and on the Christian Recovery Movement. It will serve several purposes. First, my son Ken and I are preparing for the series of three conferences to take place in September and October of this year. All are centered around what I've found, and how A.A. leaders and writers are using it and improving on it. The topics will be covered either in my own story or in chunks of substantial importance or in the subjects shared by participants in the conferences. Second, we have devoted 24 years to researching, publishing, and widely distributing to 12 Step people, to Christians, and to others in the recovery community the Christian origins and original program of A.A. to the end that these resources can be learned and applied in today's recovery scene--beginning with A.A. General Service Conference-approved literature as a guide. Third, we want our materials to be seen and digested in small chunks of discoveries--chunks that will more likely be remembered as such but also applied to the whole recovery scene. The last major objective is to follow the suggestion of a Christian A.A. leader and speaker who is preparing a Big Book sponsor's guide covering the Big Book in detail and showing its relationship to Christianity. But he wanted us to enable him to append a "Where Dick B. Found It" segment that would use bite-by-bite, footnoted references to actual facts embodied in the A.A., 12 Step, and Big Book story. And in this show, we will tell you part of the large number of A.A. history bites you can find in my own 29-volume A.A. history reference set; and, of course, in the history we have unearthed. 00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA History,Dick B AA Reference Set,The Big Book,12 StepsToday's radio show will give you a large number of historical snippets that author Dick B. has unearthed and published on the history of Alcoholics Anonymous ahttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/23/what-every-12-step-newcomer-should-learn-from-the-startfReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/23/what-every-12-step-newcomer-should-learn-from-the-startf/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/23/what-every-12-step-newcomer-should-learn-from-the-startfTue, 23 Jul 2013 04:30:00 GMTWhat every 12-Step Newcomer Should Learn from the Startf One of the major topics we will be discussing at the three soon-to-be-held, different sets of Alcoholics Anonymous history and Christian Recovery Movement conferences is the newcomer. Somehow, many an alcoholic or addict newcomer comes into the recovery rooms bewildered, troubled, fearful, and forgetful. And then it's as if he is thrown to the lions. Yes, he's given a hug, a cup of coffee, a Big Book, a phone number to call, and a hearty welcome. But he is very likely to leave any kind of a meeting still wondering what kind of a fellowship he is entering. Most likely, he won't hear about the Big Book, the 12 Steps, God, A.A.'s origins, A.A.'s varied approaches to recovery through the years, sponsorship, the purpose of meetings, or what to do when he is alone, ashamed, frightened, depressed, and woozy. If the newcomer is not given an orientation, an indoctrination, or a Beginner's meeting with suggestions, he may soon drift into the pool of confused, uninformed, and whining masses that abound in the rooms but pay very little attention to him. And possibly pay lots of attention to "relationships," to hand-me-down opinions and suggestions, to the importance of never missing a meeting, and the appropriate message: "Don't  drink or use, no matter what." The newcomer deserves better. His chances of permanent recovery could be better. His qualification to help somebody else can be improved. Both his mentor or guide or sponsor, and the newcomer himself, need  to be lifted up, taught, guided, and aggressively qualifying themselves to be helped and to help others. And the newcomer will be the topic tonight. 00:25:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,newcomers in recovery,The Big Book,12 StepsOne of the major topics we will be discussing at the three soon-to-be-held, different sets of Alcoholics Anonymous history and Christian Recovery Movement confhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/15/dick-b-discusses-recoverys-higher-power-puzzleReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/15/dick-b-discusses-recoverys-higher-power-puzzle/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/15/dick-b-discusses-recoverys-higher-power-puzzleMon, 15 Jul 2013 03:30:00 GMTDick B. discusses Recovery's Higher Power Puzzle What is this "higher power" that so many are talking about these days.? Not just in Alcoholics Anonymous, not just in treatment programs, and just in the endless books of those who write about alcoholism (and occasionally about the solution for alcoholism). The fact is that this single phrase "higher power"--probably germinated in A.A. four years after its founding--produced a recovery puzzle, but not a recovery solution. This is not to say the phrase is never used in recovery language. Rather that it has been used to the point of obscuring the solution--which is reliance on God. Early Akron AAs didn't talk about a higher power. If they were really serious, they trusted God--"the God of the Scriptures," as he was called by A.A. cofounder Bill W.; and "Heavenly Father," as he was frequently called by A.A. cofounder Dr. Bob. But the phrase "higher power" can be poison in the hands of some who are told a "higher power" can be a chair, a light bulb, Santa Claus, or "Somebody." And such is the advice thousands of AAs, and other alcoholics and drug addicts, are given very frequently in their meetings, by their speakers, and through the literature now being pumped their way. This show will be the first of several to explore the "higher power puzzle." The series comes because so many have asked me to research and write upon what I often call the "nonsense" gods of recovery, in order to identify what they are and where they came from.   00:26:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnohigher power puzzle,Recovery nonsense gods,The Creator and AA,AA and the Bible,Alcoholics Anonymous HistoryWhat is this "higher power" that so many are talking about these days.? Not just in Alcoholics Anonymous, not just in treatment programs, and just in the endlehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/12/dick-b-discusses-modern-recoverys-higher-power-fixationReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/12/dick-b-discusses-modern-recoverys-higher-power-fixation/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/12/dick-b-discusses-modern-recoverys-higher-power-fixationFri, 12 Jul 2013 04:00:00 GMTDick B. discusses modern recovery's higher power fixation It's time to turn the recovery spotlight on the subject I call "the nonsense gods" of the recovery movement. I say recovery rather than A.A. or other 12-Step Fellowship because it seems more and more apparent that the nonsense comes mostly from those who don't know A.A.'s history, or its origins, or its original Akron Number One Group's Christian recovery program, or how the first three AAs got sober without ever mentioning a higher power, a power greater than themselves or some god of their supposed understanding. After 27 years of continuous sobriety and 24 years of research, I find it's the academic, the scientist, the so-called historian, and the ivory tower observer who tthinks A.A. is monolithic, 2 million of a kind, and in univeral belief that there is no God. But the facts show oherwise. These dream analysts are often ex-AAs who have left the A.A. Fellowship, sometimes Christians who use irrelevant Bible verses to condemn A.A., sometimes professionals selling something besides God, the Big Book, the Twelve Steps, or the Bible. But the vast majority of AAs I have met have no dog in this fight. They're far too sick, too self-centered at first, too afraid, too guilty, too ashamed, and too filled with troubles that they're not looking under a log for some potential idol they want to pray to. We will review some of this. We will give you the quotes about  a supposed "any god" A.A., about the supposed hell-bound AAs, and about the theological straight jacket, with which they try to hold down belief in, facts about, and the redemptive power of God.   00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Higher Power,Power greater than yourself,God as we understood HimIt's time to turn the recovery spotlight on the subject I call "the nonsense gods" of the recovery movement. I say recovery rather than A.A. or other 12-Step Fhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/11/dick-b-discusses-aas-higher-powered-godsReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/11/dick-b-discusses-aas-higher-powered-gods/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/07/11/dick-b-discusses-aas-higher-powered-godsThu, 11 Jul 2013 04:00:00 GMTDick B. discusses A.A.'s higher-powered gods When I came into A.A. in April 1986 to get sober for the first and last time, I was sufficiently sick and confused that I don't think I gave God much of a thought. I saw "God as we understood Him" in the Steps on the wall of the room. I felt I had an understanding of God, and that was that. Before long, my newly-sober sponsor and his sponsor were talking repeatedly about "higher power" this and "higher power" that; and I think I concluded that I had two higher powers: one was our Creator; the other was the A.A. group. And nobody set me straight on any of this. Unfortunately, it was a long time before I went to a Joe and Charlie Big Book Seminar in Sacramento and learned how much God was embedded in A.A.'s General Service Conference-approved literature. Furthermore, I learned from DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers that A.A.'s basic ideas came from the Bible--which many AAs--including Dr. Bob--called the Good Book. And there was plenty in A.A.'s Big Book and its Dr. Bob and the Good Oldtimers that called God the Creator, Maker, Father, Heavenly Father--all biblical descriptions. But then came the nonsense gods that were flooding meeting sharing. I heard that your higher power--whatever that  was--could be a light bulb, a door knob, a radiator, the Big Dipper, a Coke bottle, and Ralph. And I heard it often. As my A.A. years rolled on, I realized that A.A. newcomers were being short-changed in their knowledge of their history, the Bible, God, and prayer. And that much of the trouble--coupled with frequent relapses--could be identified with those who looked at A.A. as a place to get sober, but learned little about God's role. Today and in future shows, I'll introduce you to what I believe is not typical of early A.A. and not typical in A.A.'s literature today--the so-called higher power craze. 00:26:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA and God,The Bible and AA and God,AA and Higher Power,nonsense gods in AA,AA and prayerWhen I came into A.A. in April 1986 to get sober for the first and last time, I was sufficiently sick and confused that I don't think I gave God much of a thouhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/23/dick-b-discusses-the-book-recovery-revival-part-2Religionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/23/dick-b-discusses-the-book-recovery-revival-part-2/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/23/dick-b-discusses-the-book-recovery-revival-part-2Sun, 23 Jun 2013 22:00:00 GMTDick B. discusses the book "Recovery Revival"--Part 2 This is the second in a series of brief presentations in separate chunks of the material on the origins of A.A. in the Bible, the various elements of "old-school A.A.," and how the principles and practices of the Akron Group Number One "Christian fellowship" can be applied in today's recovery programs and in A.A. itself to enhance and make more useful the historical tools that were used when A.A. was put on the map with its astonishing successes.   Last evening, the first in the series was launched. The series itself will be presented in three ways: (1) By this series of radio interviews covering one old-school A.A. development at a time. (2) In a book by Dick B. and Ken B. titled Recovery Revival: Early A.A.'s First Century Christianity in Recovery Today. and (3) For the benefit of sponsors, trainers, leaders, and speakers--many of whom will be attending "The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference" in Portland, Maine, on September 6-7, 2013. Our first and previous program introduced the facts about "old-school A.A.," its names, its nature, accounts of its techniques, and how it is supported by Conference-approved literature today . This program will deal with the explicit roots and remarks of the early AAs as to how they were using the Bible for their recoveries and what portions of the Bible were emphasized. In our new book, each paragraph is accompanied by a footnote. Each footnote will enable the reader and trainer to quote from the source; to authenticate the quote; and to research the subject of the paragraph, as well as identify it for trainees, classes, sponsors, and newcomers. 00:27:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Recovery Revival,The Big Book,12 StepsThis is the second in a series of brief presentations in separate chunks of the material on the origins of A.A. in the Bible, the various elements of "old-schohttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/23/dick-b-discusses-his-next-book-recovery-revivalReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/23/dick-b-discusses-his-next-book-recovery-revival/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/23/dick-b-discusses-his-next-book-recovery-revivalSun, 23 Jun 2013 07:00:00 GMTDick B. discusses his next book, "Recovery Revival" Tonight's program comes to you from Maui, Hawaii, on June 22, 2013. It marks the beginning of a series of programs, the writing of a book, and some major materials to be presented at "The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference," September 6-7, 2013, in Portland, Maine. The working title of the new book by Ken B. and me is "Recovery Revival: Early A.A.'s 'First Century Christianity' in Recovery Today." Tonight I will  provide you with the introductory chapter material. And I'll illustrate to you the simple workbook--outline form and guide--that is much in demand by those who want to start groups, wish guidance as to the content to be covered by the groups, and wish to have a book serving several purposes: First, a book that covers in short sentences the several topics that constitute the elements of the needed recovery revival. Second, the nature of First Century Christianity in recovery today. Third, the biblical source for these principles and practices. Fourth, how A.A.'s founders learned the principles. Fifth, how A.A. began with the simple application of the principles. Sixth, what the original A.A. principles and practices were. Seventh, how the A.A. literature still amply supports those practices. And eighth, how one can form or conduct a group or fellowship within A.A. or other 12-Step programs that learns, hears experiences with, and has meeting  topics that constitute the revival and the resources to bring recovery back to the true role that God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible played in early A.A.'s astonishing successes, and can play today for those who want God's help and are willing to go to any length to get it.  00:25:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Recovery Revival,the Big Book,12 StepsTonight's program comes to you from Maui, Hawaii, on June 22, 2013. It marks the beginning of a series of programs, the writing of a book, and some major materhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/15/dick-b-calls-for-volunteers-in-major-projectsReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/15/dick-b-calls-for-volunteers-in-major-projects/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/15/dick-b-calls-for-volunteers-in-major-projectsSat, 15 Jun 2013 06:00:00 GMTDick B. calls for volunteers in major projects Tonight's show is all about asking you, as AAs, Christians, and recovery leaders and servants, to furnish volunteer efforts to us in a major Christian Recovery Outreach effort just ahead. This volunteer help can be in your home or workplace, or in your fellowship or area. The appeal is not a fundraiser. It's a request for hands-on service consistent with your own time schedule, obligations, other demands, and degree of proficiency. This call is for help you choose to donate in connection with your proficiency with computers, graphics, Internet, Web sites, study, research, writing, intern inclinations, communication skills, skills in marketing and advertising, Christian recovery and healing, alcoholism and addiction, TV, radio, web design, personal contacts, and experience with recovery from addiction with God's help, the Bible, prayer, Christian literature, and spiritual growth. We have had and haven't employed staff or workers in the past. But the new plans are for revising our Web sites, blogs, films, audios, power points, graphics, YouTube, book reviews, commentaries, recruitment of new participants in Christian Recovery--whether as AAs, NAs, sponsors, speakers, physicians, psychologists, counselors, interventionists, sober living, after care. treatment, Christian recovery leadership, Christian recovery pastoring, ministries, articles, reviews, personal contacts, manuscript preparation, publishing, filming, recording, use of social media, emailing, contacting by phone or in person, and asking appropriate questions of our many communicants who use the phone, email, forums, comments, and the like. We'll briefly tell here what we do, have done, would like to do, and would like to have as volunteers. And about our aim to train others in old-school A.A., the Bible and A.A., A.A. history, prayer, and A.A. conference-approved literature. Write Dick at dickb@dickb.com 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoFirst Century Christianity,Using conference approved literature today,Answers for suffering AAs,AA and the Book of Acts,Volunteers for Christian Recovery serviceTonight's show is all about asking you, as AAs, Christians, and recovery leaders and servants, to furnish volunteer efforts to us in a major Christian Recoveryhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/12/dick-b-talks-about-the-first-international-aa-history-confReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/12/dick-b-talks-about-the-first-international-aa-history-conf/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/12/dick-b-talks-about-the-first-international-aa-history-confWed, 12 Jun 2013 03:00:00 GMTDick B. talks about the First International AA History ConfDick B. discusses preparations for "The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference," Sept. 6-7, 2013, in Portland, Maine.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill W,The Big Book,12 StepsDick B. discusses preparations for "The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference," Sept. 6-7, 2013, in Portland, Maine.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/06/dick-b-discusses-the-needs-of-christian-recovery-meetingsReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/06/dick-b-discusses-the-needs-of-christian-recovery-meetings/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/06/dick-b-discusses-the-needs-of-christian-recovery-meetingsThu, 06 Jun 2013 20:30:00 GMTDick B. discusses the needs of Christian recovery meetingsDick B. discusses some excellent suggestions for focuses he received recently concerning some very dynamic Christian recovery meetings in California. In today's broadcast, he highlights the growing and diverse needs of the new Christian recovery fellowship meetings.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Christian Recovery,The Big Book,12 StepsDick B. discusses some excellent suggestions for focuses he received recently concerning some very dynamic Christian recovery meetings in California. In today'shttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/06/ken-b-discusses-occurrences-of-god-in-the-big-bookReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/06/ken-b-discusses-occurrences-of-god-in-the-big-book/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/06/ken-b-discusses-occurrences-of-god-in-the-big-bookThu, 06 Jun 2013 03:00:00 GMTKen B. discusses occurrences of "God" in the Big BookDick B.'s son Ken discusses the 135 occurrences of the word "God" in pages 1-164 of the fourth edition of Alcoholics Anonymous ("the Big Book"), along with the 81 occurrences of capitalized pronouns referring to the Creator of the heavens and the earth in those pages and the 16 occurrences of biblical descriptions of the Creator in those same 164 pages. He also discusses the myths that: (1) "the Big Book has never changed"; and (2) the "basic text" of A.A. is the (four) Foreword(s), "The Doctor's Opinion," pages 1-164 (in the second, third, and fourth editions of the Big Book), and "Appendix II: Spiritual Experience" in the Big Book. In addition, he discusses key lessons those who ignore the "Personal Stories" section of the Big Book--and particularly the 26 of the original 29 personal testimonies in the back of the first edition (1939) of the Big Book--are missing about why early A.A. succeeded.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA,Alcoholics Anonymous history,Bill W,12 Steps,the Big BookDick B.'s son Ken discusses the 135 occurrences of the word "God" in pages 1-164 of the fourth edition of Alcoholics Anonymous ("the Big Book"), along with thehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/05/dick-b-discusses-the-international-aa-history-conferenceReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/05/dick-b-discusses-the-international-aa-history-conference/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/05/dick-b-discusses-the-international-aa-history-conferenceWed, 05 Jun 2013 03:00:00 GMTDick B. discusses the International AA History ConferenceThe First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference is growing in participants, topics, and scope each day. The conference itself will be held September 6-7, 2013, at The First Baptist Church of Portland, Maine, 360 Canco Road, Portland, Maine. There will be many events before, during, and after the conference proper. These include roundtable discussions, speakers, special presentations, special meeting places, and a possible side trip on September 8-10 to St. Johnsbury, Vermont, where Dr. Bob was born and received his "excellent training" in the Good Book as a youngster in St. Johnsbury. Another special event will be a speaker-discussion meeting of the Free At Last A.A. group on Wednesday, September 11, with a potluck dinner beginning at 5:30 p.m., and with the A.A. meeting beginning at 7:00 p.m., and featuring Dick B. and Ken B. as guest speakers. And now we will tell you of the enormous growth in planning and activities that has taken place--three months before the scheduled conference period, September 5-12, 2013.00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA History,The First International AA History Conference,Bill W,Twelve StepsThe First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference is growing in participants, topics, and scope each day. The conference itself will be held Septehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/02/dick-b-on-aa-founding-relying-on-the-creator-role-of-jesusReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/02/dick-b-on-aa-founding-relying-on-the-creator-role-of-jesus/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/02/dick-b-on-aa-founding-relying-on-the-creator-role-of-jesusSun, 02 Jun 2013 04:30:00 GMTDick B on AA Founding, Relying on the Creator, Role of Jesus The first three AAs were all Christians and founded a Christian fellowship on July 4, 1935. Bill W. was raised by Christian parents and grandparents. All attended East Dorset Congregational Church. Bill went to Sunday school and witnessed temperance meetings, revivals and conversion meetings. He studied the Bible with his grandfather Griffith. Bill attended Congregational Burr and Burton Seminary for 4 years; took a 4-year Bible course; went to daily chapel; went to prayer meetings; and was president of the YMCA. Bill remembered his grandfather Wilson's conversion and healing of alcoholism, and his father and mother's singing about the "Great Father." Dr. Silkworth told Bill the Great Physician Jesus Christ could cure Bill of alcoholism. Bill's friend Ebby went to Calvary Mission, was born again, and was healed of alcoholism. Bill accepted Jesus as his Lord at Calvary Mission, wrote he had been born again, called on the Great Physician, and was cured of alcoholism at Towns Hospital when he cried out to God for help. (Big Book, 191.) St. Johnsbury where Bob grew up was filled with Congregational fervor. Bob's dad was a deacon in North Congregational Church, and Bob's mom was active in the church's educational efforts. The church supported Christian Endeavor in which Bob was active, prayer meetings, and YMCA affairs. On Sunday, there were sermons, reading of Scripture, hymns, and prayers. Bob went to St. Johnsbury Academy with daily Christian training similar to that given to Bill. Dr. Bob often spoke of his "Heavenly Father" and of Jesus Christ as the Master. Both Bill and Bob spoke about the importance of Jesus's Sermon on the Mount, the Book of James, 1 Corinthians 13, the Bible, and morning devotionals. The Big Book carried reliance on God further on pages 25 and 29. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill W,Dr Bob,The BibleThe first three AAs were all Christians and founded a Christian fellowship on July 4, 1935. Bill W. was raised by Christian parents and grandparents. All attenhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/01/dick-b-discusses-why-aas-did-not-begin-with-an-idolReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/01/dick-b-discusses-why-aas-did-not-begin-with-an-idol/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/06/01/dick-b-discusses-why-aas-did-not-begin-with-an-idolSat, 01 Jun 2013 06:30:00 GMTDick B. discusses why AAs did not begin with an idol I Study Alcoholics Anonymous History to Help the Alcoholic Who Still Suffers? Do we study A.A. Historyt to learn what some writer decided to fashion as a secular alternative to the Creator? I don’t. Do we want to hear about self-made religion, absurd names for a “god,” strange “higher powers,” or some academic’s thoughts about praying to and depending on an higher power that is a light bulb, a group, a tree, the Big Dipper, a rock, a chair, “Something,” or “Somebody?” I don’t! Shall we debate over what one writer called A.A.’s “non-Christian” God. Or another's “not-god-ness” or the latest literature emanating from “scholars” statingt one does not have to believe in anything at all to get well in A.A.? Soon I believe you will rejectI to the life-or-death malady of alcoholism. I do not, and I will not. There is ample documentation for the biblical source of Alcoholics Anonymous. And we focus first on what A.A.’s own General Service Conference-approved literature has to say. A.A. published a valuable historical treasure when it released its pamphlet The Co-Founders of Alcoholics Anonymous: Biographical Sketches: Their Last Major Talks (item # P-53). And the following quote from the last major talk given by A.A. co-founder Dr. Bob in 1948 should start the ball rolling There is ample additional material to be found in the first edition of Alcoholics Anonymous, published in 1939. Also in Bill Wilson’s Alcoholics Anonymous Comes of Age. Also in A.A.’s DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers, “Pass It On,” and The Language of the Heart. Please read our detailed citations from this literature as we move forward with this “higher power versus Alcoholics Anonymous history” review. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnohigher powers and God,Early AA belief in God,AA history,The Creator,Jesus and His FatherI Study Alcoholics Anonymous History to Help the Alcoholic Who Still Suffers? Do we study A.A. Historyt to learn what some writer decided to fashion as a secuhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/05/18/dick-b-on-the-first-international-aa-history-conferenceReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/05/18/dick-b-on-the-first-international-aa-history-conference/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/05/18/dick-b-on-the-first-international-aa-history-conferenceSat, 18 May 2013 05:00:00 GMTDick B. on "The First International A.A. History Conference" This is Dick B. speaking to you from Maui Hawaii. And this evening's show will tell you the latest highlights of "The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference" being held September 6-7, 2013, in Portland, Maine, at The First Baptist Church of Portland Maine, located at 360 Canco Rd in Portland. We have a special Web page for the conference. It can be seen at http://mcaf.ee/ghcky. My son Ken B. and I will be in Portland, Maine, staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Portland Airport at 145 Jetport Blvd. in Portland from Thurs., Sept. 5, to Thurs., Sept. 12. The main events of the conference will be held Fri.-Sat., September 6-7. Ken and I will also meet with individuals or groups between Sept. 6 and Sept. 12 to  discuss the many topics I'll mention in this show. We have found that special meetings in our hotel lobby, hotel room, restaurants, and other convenient places can often be the heart of and the most productive part of these conferences. They allow for personalized questions, comments, suggestions, discussions, and planning on our three major focuses as historians and authors of Alcoholics Anonymous History and A.A.'s Roots in the Bible. Please contact me at DickB@DickB.com and arrange in advance for convenient times and places for such Portland meetings. Main historical focuses will be on: (1) The 12 Steps of A.A. (2) A.A. Origins, History, Founders, and Facts. (3) Sponsorship Today. (4) Orienting and informing newcomers. (5) A.A. History Past, Present, and Future. And now for more conference details which we hope will encourage you to attend, participate, speak, and even bring exhibits. Following are many possible subjects where you may have experience and expertise that will help recovering newcomers today.   00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA History Conference,Maine AA History Conf,Sept 6 to 7 Study AA Roots Steps,Dick B and Ken B Speak in Maine Sept 6 and 7,Old School and 12 Step Recovery TodayThis is Dick B. speaking to you from Maui Hawaii. And this evening's show will tell you the latest highlights of "The First International Alcoholics Anonymoushttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/25/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-jennifer-hReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/25/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-jennifer-h/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/25/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-jennifer-hThu, 25 Apr 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian recovery leader Jennifer H. Our first encounter with today's guest arose out of a cry for help that this woman had placed on Facebook. Essentially, she said that she and her husband were very active in church life in a little town near Fort Worth, Texas. Both had good track records in A.A.; and we have already interviewed the husband Bryce. Our guest is a skilled, licensed alcohol and drug counselor. And her Facebook request centered around their desire to establish a Christian recovery fellowship, but that they had no resources. On the phone, I determined that they were really serious and that they could do lots more than establishing a Christian recovery fellowship. And her call was like many we have received from all over the U.S. I suggest that such leaders become Participants in the International Christian Recovery Coalition so they can learn of and network with the many Christian leaders and workers in the U.S. and other countries who, without cost, are united in their willingness to learn and disseminate the role that God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible played in the recovery movement and can play today among those suffering alcoholics and addicts who want God's help and will work for it diligently. Our guest jumped at that option. Then I suggested she set  up a large international Alcoholics Anonymous history conference in her area. I pointed out that there were countless tried and true ways to fund it: (1) Have a modest registration fee. (2) Have at least two top notch speakers. (3) Pass the basket. (4) Alllow organizations to purchase exhibit privileges. (5) Ask for donations on the spot for coffee, beverages, and food. And she began to recite the contacts they had with a large church, musicians, air flights, and hotel accomodations. And that's where we are right now. I'm expecting her to tell us about her family, education, professional work, drinking period, and plans for the future. And the show is now hers. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Sober by Grace,The Big Book,12 StepsOur first encounter with today's guest arose out of a cry for help that this woman had placed on Facebook. Essentially, she said that she and her husband werehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/23/dick-b-interviews-a-recovered-christian-in-the-militaryReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/23/dick-b-interviews-a-recovered-christian-in-the-military/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/23/dick-b-interviews-a-recovered-christian-in-the-militaryTue, 23 Apr 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews a recovered Christian in the militaryMy son Ken & I just received a wonderful surprise. Steve, a thoroughly-trained, physically fit, eager Christian sailor, let us know the other day he was vacationing here in Maui with his wife prior to a deployment. Several years ago, we met him at a Bible study class for Christians in recovery held by the dynamic Rock Church in San Diego. Having seen his willingness to act, we invited him to Maui to be part of our Christian work with suffering alcoholics and drug addicts. But we learned he was headed out for military service. He later got married. Yesterday he called us to say he & his wife were on Maui. We were struck with his fitness, motivation, discipline, and devotion to God. We hope he'll share today his: (1) discipline; (2) patent intelligence; (3) commendable four years of sobriety; (4) teaming up with a Christian Navy man; (5) work with addicted newcomers; (6) Bible study classes; (7) demanding service training over the past two years; and (8) fidelity to sobriety in A.A. His determination was similar to Dr. Bob's in that he attained some remarkable education while doing "graduate work" in alcoholism and addiction. Thus, despite progressing drinking and drugging, he graduated from college & received his degree in a demanding field. Recently, he received a master's degree in a technical field that will serve him well during & after his military service. He & his wife of two years are happily married. And he has a serviceman's patriotic fervor for serving and defending his country. He, also appears to have placed his life under the care and direction of our Creator and His Son Jesus Christ, and respects the Bible's major role in that endeavor. He's an inspiration. Here's his story.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,recovered Christian military man,The Big Book,12 StepsMy son Ken & I just received a wonderful surprise. Steve, a thoroughly-trained, physically fit, eager Christian sailor, let us know the other day he was vacatiohttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/22/dick-b-discusses-his-29-volume-aa-history-reference-setReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/22/dick-b-discusses-his-29-volume-aa-history-reference-set/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/22/dick-b-discusses-his-29-volume-aa-history-reference-setMon, 22 Apr 2013 04:30:00 GMTDick B. Discusses His 29 Volume AA History Reference Set We have a special program today. Grounded on the 29-volume "Dick B. A.A. History and Christian Recovery Reference Set." We are currently making the entire set of 29 volumes available for only $249.00--with FREE(!) Shipping within the United States. (If you live in another country, please contact us at DickB@DickB.com for Shipping charges to countries outside the U.S.) That comes to an average of less than $8.60 per book! (Please see the upper right-hand corner of the www.DickB.com front page for details of the special.) One of the questions we recently received from someone who had just ordered the Reference Set was: "In what order would you suggest I read these 29 volumes?" "The Dick B. A.A. History and Christian Recovery Reference Set" is not meant to be read all at once. It's for a lifetime. It's for study groups. It's for special categories as to which there are questions. But most of our friends have been voracious in their apetite to read all the books when they arrive in the mail. And they ask how to start. Time is short today. But we have grouped the books into six categories listed for your reading guidance. These are: (1) Approaches to the Newcomer. (2) Basic A.A. Fellowship Ideas. (3) The Cofounders' Contributions. (4) People and Programs That Fleshed out Early A.A.'s Successes. (5) Twelve Steps and "the New Version of the Program" published in 1939. (6) A.A.'s Successes and Cures. If time permits, I will go through all 29 books briefly, tell you what they contribute, and suggest the order in which you can read them for best digestion and usage. 00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA History,Dick B,The Big Book,12 StepsWe have a special program today. Grounded on the 29-volume "Dick B. A.A. History and Christian Recovery Reference Set." We are currently making the entire sethttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/18/dick-b-interviews-christian-recover-leader-bryce-hReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/18/dick-b-interviews-christian-recover-leader-bryce-h/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/18/dick-b-interviews-christian-recover-leader-bryce-hThu, 18 Apr 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recover leader Bryce H. Today's guest is Bryce H. from the Fort Worth, Texas, area. He and his wife are strong Christian recovery leaders in that area and are planning a major, unique, nationwide Alcoholics Anonymous history conference there very soon. First, though, Bryce will tell us a little about his upbringing, educational and religious background, family, marriage, present work, and something of his bouts with addiction. He will also prepare you with some details about his wife--who will be interviewed in just a few days. Second, when last we talked, Bryce was gung ho about a major nationwide A.A. history conference he and his wife are planning for this summer or early fall in the Fort Worth area. And this will be our first opportunity to talk to A.A. friends, Christian leaders and workers, newcomers, churches, and the public about our history and its Christian origins. Third, we look for an audience from all over Fort Worth and Texas; from nearby New Mexico, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and other locations where A.A. history and enthusiasm are hot. Fourth, the Ft. Worth conference will bring in speakers who know their stuff, probably from Florida and Hawaii; will have music and food; and will feature three much-needed workshops: (1) Sponsorship. (2) Newcomer focus. (3) Applying Old-School A.A. principles and practices in 12 Step programs today. Bryce will tell us as much as he wishes about all these subjects. And now we are ready for his talk. Take it away, Bryce 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Sober By Grace Ministries,The Big Book,12 StepsToday's guest is Bryce H. from the Fort Worth, Texas, area. He and his wife are strong Christian recovery leaders in that area and are planning a major, uniquehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/08/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-william-bReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/08/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-william-b/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/04/08/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-william-bMon, 08 Apr 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian recovery worker William B. Today's guest could be called "The Rocket." This recovered Christian alcoholic has literally torn up the turf in the short period since I have come to know him and his wife Mary. William B. is from Delaware. Not very long ago, he joined his wife in a massive Internet service to God and those about him. William was taken with the importance of Alcoholics Anonymous history. And with the vital role that God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible have played in the field of recovery from alcoholism and addiction--particularly since the 1850's in the United States and certainly in the State of Vermont during the Christian upbringing of A.A. cofounders William G. Wilson and Dr. Robert H. Smith (known as Bill W. and Dr. Bob). I will not gild the lily any further. But I will say a hearty "Thank you!" to William for article after article, historical item after historical item, and fidelity to accurate reporting that he has brought to the 12 Step recovery scene and to the Christian Recovery Movement. At this point, I'll ask William to tell you about his family, his religious and educational background, his bouts with alcoholism and addiction, his association for the Twelve Steps, and his passion for getting out to people accurate, documented A.A. history information for those suffering souls who want God's help in recovery and are willing to go to any length to get it. William will also tell us about his Web site, his experience with it, and his plans for bringing the option of turning to God for help and bringing that effective source back into review for Christians and for others. Take it away, William! 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,William B,The Big Book,12 StepsToday's guest could be called "The Rocket." This recovered Christian alcoholic has literally torn up the turf in the short period since I have come to know himhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/31/dick-b-talks-on-good-book-big-book-mtgs-which-bible-to-useReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/31/dick-b-talks-on-good-book-big-book-mtgs-which-bible-to-use/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/31/dick-b-talks-on-good-book-big-book-mtgs-which-bible-to-useSun, 31 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMTDick B talks on Good Book Big Book Mtgs & Which Bible to Use Recently, we (Dick B. and Ken B.) published and disseminated widely a newsletter primarily for those many folks who have been phoning, emailing, and telling us at meetings that they want to start an A.A. Step Study/Big Book and Bible study group as an A.A. Directory-listed meeting or as a Christian Recovery meeting. Inevitably, they ask how they should go about the process. And we have published and/or otherwise sent out a good many guides, lists of suggested study topics, and lists of suggested procedures for setting up the meeting they wish to conduct. We particularly focused on such meetings in our new title: Stick with the Winners!: How to Conduct More Effective 12-Step Meetings Using Conference-Approved Literature. More often than not, the meetings folks ask us about conducting will cover study of the Big Book and 12 Steps in conjunction with study of the Bible. This is because A.A. cofounder Dr. Bob made it so clear in his last major talk to AAs how important the Bible was in formulating the basic ideas for the 12 Steps. He spoke of the effort, study, and teaching that were involved. And our most popular title, The Good Book and the Big Book: A.A.'s Roots in the Bible has been a frequent starting point. This evening, Dick B. will summarize an article he just wrote on this subject area, and which he also posted on line and sent to many by email. The importance of the subject is underlined in Dr. Bob's remarks in the A.A. General Service Conference-approved pamphlet titled The Co-Founders of Alcoholics Anonymous: Biographical Sketches: Their Last Major Talks (item # P-53). And I (Ken B.) will start the program off by quoting some of what Dr. Bob said on pages 13 and 14 of that important pamphlet. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Dick B,The Big Book,Twelve StepsRecently, we (Dick B. and Ken B.) published and disseminated widely a newsletter primarily for those many folks who have been phoning, emailing, and telling ushttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/28/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-mary-bReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/28/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-mary-b/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/28/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-worker-mary-bThu, 28 Mar 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery worker Mary B Today's guest is Mary B. from Delaware. Her story of deliverance is miraculous. And this interview grew out the frequency of Mary's approving comments on my Facebook page. Day after day, she followed the posts. And then things began to pop. Mary and members of her family indicated they were extensively studying my materials on A.A. history, the Bible, and the help God has given and can give to alcoholics and addicts who seek His help. Mary has a 29-year-old daughter named Natalie, who is a Federal Fire Fighter. But Mary, age 51, faced many a hurdle in A.A. She could not get sober. She had no "true God." She was having difficulties with her husband. She weighed 230 pounds, could not  read or write and was dying of heart failure. Then she cried out to God saying: "Who are  you God; and I have no idea what grace means or how to get it." Her life changed forever more. The event is described on page 25 of the Big Book and in Hebrews 2:9; and she thanks God every day for it and teaches others. She believes God put a teacher of God's word in front of her; and it was a pastor. She kept hearing that Christ Jesus could heal her. That was the start . She took holy communion and was anointed. Her Heavenly Father taught  her to read; she came off all medications and lost all the excess weight. And three years ago she hit her knees and got a woman to take her through the Steps. Mary is bursting with the desire  to help others who are afflicted with or affected by alcoholism. Her family are alive with Christian recovery messages on the Internet. And now she believes, as Bill Wilson did, that Jesus Christ can heal alcoholics. She'll  tell you some of her alcoholism story as she wishes. Then focus on what she has found in the Bible, the Big Book, and A.A. fellowship that can help alcoholics get well with God's power and love. Talk to us, Mary. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Mary B,The Big Book,12 StepsToday's guest is Mary B. from Delaware. Her story of deliverance is miraculous. And this interview grew out the frequency of Mary's approving comments on my Fahttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/27/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-don-cReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/27/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-don-c/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/27/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-don-cWed, 27 Mar 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery leader Don C. Our guest today is Christian recovery leader Don C. from the Santa Rosa, California, area. I'm quite familiar with this area because my parents had a wonderful home in nearby Sebastopol where my own family spent many hours as visitors for some 20 years. And the visits often took us over to Don's territory for flower exhibits, county fair days, and other outings. Often, I am able to recount the personal contacts I have had with our Christian leaders; but Don's case has been different. Don has done lots of recovery work with alcoholics and addicts in his area. He has fully supported the mission of the International Christian Recovery Coalition (www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com) and posted many of our historical items on his Web site. He has a great Web site--which he will tell you about. But we are in Hawaii, Don is in central California, and Don has had health and other problems which limited our contact until we met him in Northern California last month. However, Don C. now has an important post in the recovery arena. He also drove from Santa Rosa to the San Jose Area to meet with several Christian recovery leaders, and Ken and me, to discuss networking, conferences, and disseminating more information about the role that God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible have played in recovery from alcoholism and addiction and can play today. Don will tell us about these things. He will also fill us in on his upbringing, family, jobs, education, and relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ. And he will tell us a bit about his drinking and addiction experiences, as well as the important recovery work he is doing now. We look forward to hearing lots about Don C.'s godly efforts in the future. And now--take it away, Don! 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Don C,The Big Book,12 StepsOur guest today is Christian recovery leader Don C. from the Santa Rosa, California, area. I'm quite familiar with this area because my parents had a wonderfulhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/26/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-jeff-mReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/26/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-jeff-m/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/26/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-jeff-mTue, 26 Mar 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery leader Jeff M Our guest today is Jeff M., Executive Director of Overcomers Outreach, Inc.--a Christian Twelve Step Bridge Group with headquarters in Whittier, California. These are very exciting days for us at Christian Recovery Radio because--in addition to the many Christian recovery leaders and workers that we have interviewed up to this point--we are being deluged with new faces, new energies, and new growth in the International Christian Recovery Coalition. This includes the role of God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible in recovery in all 50 states and in other countries. But our connection with Overcomers Outreach, Inc., is seasoned and long-standing. We're delighted to have Jeff here today. Bob Bartosch and his wife Pauline organized Overcomers Outreach as a Christian recovery bridge group. They published a guidebook; they worked tirelessly to help alcoholics, addicts, and those with other life-controlling problems seek, find, and receive God's help. And I (Dick B.) was privileged to speak at one of their large conferences in Southern California. And then Bob passed away. However, Pauline was determined to keep the embers glowing. In October 2008, she introduced Jeff to Ken and me at our conference in Pasadena, CA. Pauline reported that they had Jeff as a great, new director. And since then, we've seen nothing but vibrant service that glorifies God among the addicted and those affected by addiction. Jeff will tell us about his upbringing, family, education, religious background, Twelve Step work, and activities in moving Overcomers Outreach back into a center place in the arena of the Christian Recovery Movement. Also a bit about his addiction experience. We hope to hear about the many new events and outreach efforts that are characterizing Overcomers Outreach today--including their new guidebook. Take it away, Jeff 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoChristian Recovery leaders,AA history,Overcomers Outreach,The Big Book,12 Step Bridge GroupsOur guest today is Jeff M., Executive Director of Overcomers Outreach, Inc.--a Christian Twelve Step Bridge Group with headquarters in Whittier, California. Thhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/17/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-tim-kReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/17/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-tim-k/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/17/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-tim-kSun, 17 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery leader Tim K.Our guest today is Tim K. from Colorado. In just the short time we've known him, he's clearly been a dynamic and productive Christian leader, Tim will tell you about his family, education, religious background, job, 12 Step fellowship experience, and plans for the future. We particularly look forward to hearing what Tim has done and is doing with the "Came to Believe" (Clarence Snyder) retreat in his Colorado area. We met Time when Ken and I were speaking in Leesburg, Florida, at the Snyder Life Enrichment Retreat there in November 2012. Many attending told us how active Tim had been in moving the retreat forward in his area. And we would like to hear more. In fact, we hope he will be gathering Christian recovery leaders and workers in his area, and arranging conferences and meetings that will enable them to learn and pass along the roles God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible have played in recovery and can play today. In addition, we would like to hear more of Tim's interest in several A.A. historical treasures of ours that we hope to see acquired, studied, and made accessible to a good location and Christian steward. The treasures include a complete photocopy of the pre-publication manuscript of DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers with no chapters, with editing and change notations, and the full names of the AAs involved. They also include Anne Smith's personal journal (1933-1939), and the manuscripts I found at Stepping Stones and which contain so many of Bill W.'s writings before the Big Book was published. The latter are scarcely known or researched. Tim has expressed an interest in this project. And now we look forward to hearing this dedicated, recovered, Christian A.A. leader, and are delighted he is a participant in the International Christian Recovery Coalition. Take it away, Tim!00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Tim K,Bill W,12 StepsOur guest today is Tim K. from Colorado. In just the short time we've known him, he's clearly been a dynamic and productive Christian leader, Tim will tell youhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/14/ken-b-discusses-the-christian-recovery-radio-web-siteReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/14/ken-b-discusses-the-christian-recovery-radio-web-site/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/14/ken-b-discusses-the-christian-recovery-radio-web-siteThu, 14 Mar 2013 20:30:00 GMTKen B. discusses the Christian Recovery Radio Web siteToday Dick B.'s son Ken will be discussing how the www.ChristianRecoveryRadio.com Web site came into being and why following two conferences of the International Christian Recovery Coalition (www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com) held in Southern California in January 2012 at The Crossing Church in Costa Mesa (hosted by Pastor Randy Moraitis) and subsequently at His Place Church in Westminster (hosted by Pastor Joe Furey). He will talk about Dick B.'s dream of interviewing Christian leaders and workers in the recovery arena from around the world that he has met during the course of his 23 years of research on the roles played by God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible in early A.A.'s astonishing successes with "seemingly-hopeless," "medically-incurable," "last-gasp-case," "real" alcoholics who thoroughly followed the original Akron A.A. "Christian fellowship" program. And how that dream has been realized in the form of the "Christian Recovery Radio with Dick B." show which has archived more than 50 episodes since the show began on May 29, 2012. Ken will also discuss the two video classes available on the Web site: (1) "Introductory Foundations for Christian Recovery"; and (2) "Stick with the Winners!" In addition, he will discuss the free Dick B. videos--including those from the "DickBChannel" on YouTube. And finally he will talk about the talks by Russell S. of Miami, Florida, which illustrate clearly how a person may speak about Jesus and the Bible in their own words from their own point of view how they established their relationship with God (Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th ed., 29). Join Dick B. and Ken B. for the show today, and "stick with the winners!" (http://mcaf.ee/h7igx).00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Christian Recovery Radio,The Big Book,12 StepsToday Dick B.'s son Ken will be discussing how the www.ChristianRecoveryRadio.com Web site came into being and why following two conferences of the Internationahttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/12/dick-b-interviews-christian-musician-santosReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/12/dick-b-interviews-christian-musician-santos/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/12/dick-b-interviews-christian-musician-santosTue, 12 Mar 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian musician SantosOur guest today is Christian musician Santos.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,Christian recovery,Santos,The Big Book,12 StepsOur guest today is Christian musician Santos.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/11/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-taper-rusty-wReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/11/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-taper-rusty-w/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/11/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-taper-rusty-wMon, 11 Mar 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian recovery taper Rusty W.Today's guest is Rusty W. from Arizona. We have known Rusty for quite a few years--mostly as the expert conference recorder who taped several of our important conferences. Rusty is a recovered alcoholic, a devoted Christian, and a man experienced with the many varieties of recovery stories he has encountered. I remember that he recorded The First Nationwide A.A. History Conference in Phoenix where Dr. Bob's son, Ray G. (former archivist at Dr. Bob's Home in Akron), and I set the tone for many A.A. history conferences that have followed. Rusty's company is called "Smile God Loves You Media." He will share with us a little about himself, his family, his encounters with alcohol, and the types of meetings he has recorded. And he will let us know what he has heard about A.A. history, the A.A. and Al-Anon Fellowships, and the Christian Recovery Movement. Take it away, Rusty!00:31:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Rusty W,The Big Book,12 StepsToday's guest is Rusty W. from Arizona. We have known Rusty for quite a few years--mostly as the expert conference recorder who taped several of our important chttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/06/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-mike-belzmanReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/06/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-mike-belzman/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/06/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-mike-belzmanWed, 06 Mar 2013 23:30:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian Recovery leader Mike BelzmanWe have a distinguished Christian Recovery Leader on our show today. He is the Reverend Dr. Mike Belman. Mike is the pastor of a church. He leads the Association of Christian Alcohol and Drug Counselors Institute. He founded the organization to enable Christians to take certification courses and get the necessary education to have themselves licensed as Christian Alcohol and Drug Counselors in full compliance with the laws of the State of California.Pastor Mike has honored Ken and me with several opportunties to speak at annual conferences of the ACADC Institute--our topic being the Christian roots of the recovery movement. And he enabled us to become curriculum advisors for his program. Mike has also published a fine book on Christian recovery counseling.Today, as time permits, he will tell us a bit about his background, family, education, becoming a Christian, and taking the long leap into the field of Christian recovery counseling. He will also tell us about some of the many who have taken his courses, gone on to become licensed counselors, and then often-established ministries as well as counselor training courses in their own areas.We regard Mike as a dear and close friend. And now, I'll ask Mike to do the talking. Take it away Mike 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholism Addiction Counseling,Christian recovery counseling,12 Step programs,Christian recovery,The Bible and AAWe have a distinguished Christian Recovery Leader on our show today. He is the Reverend Dr. Mike Belman. Mike is the pastor of a church. He leads the Associatiohttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/06/dick-b-on-early-aa-bill-ws-new-version-of-the-programReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/06/dick-b-on-early-aa-bill-ws-new-version-of-the-program/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/03/06/dick-b-on-early-aa-bill-ws-new-version-of-the-programWed, 06 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMTDick B. on early AA & Bill W.'s new version of the programToday, people striving for recovery from alcoholism often think that A.A. itself offers two divergent ways to recover. The little-known, first way is the way the pioneers did it. We call it "old-school" A.A. Its principle tenet is reliance on God, coupled with helping others. The second alternative often finds AAs struggling with Bill W.'s "new version of the program." This alternative confronts them with the ever-present idea that they can recover by relying on some ill-defined "Higher Power" or even by believing in nothing at all. We believe "old-school" A.A. offers the best choice for those who really understand that they are unable to help themselves, that no human power can help them, but that God can and will and has. We will tell you four reasons for reexamining and applying "old-school" ideas today. We will also tell you four major barriers to the potential for recovery in present-day A.A. And we will lay the foundation for sobriety, recovery, and deliverance with the solution that works.00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoold school AA and God,Bill W and the new version of the AA program,The AA solution,AA recovery alternatives,Barriers to AA recovery todayToday, people striving for recovery from alcoholism often think that A.A. itself offers two divergent ways to recover. The little-known, first way is the way thhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/24/dick-b-discusses-how-to-apply-early-aa-success-todayReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/24/dick-b-discusses-how-to-apply-early-aa-success-today/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/24/dick-b-discusses-how-to-apply-early-aa-success-todaySun, 24 Feb 2013 20:30:00 GMTDick B discusses how to apply early AA success todayAlcoholics and drug addicts today don't need a new therapeutic program. Nor a new treatment model. Nor criticism of a valuable society that has successfully relied on the power of God for recovery for decades. The afflicted souls need teachers who will accurately inform them about what their predecessors did that was so unique and so astonishingly effective. The ingredients we will discuss today are these: (1) How the first three AAs were healed without a Big Book, 12 Steps, 12 Traditions, drunkalogs, or meetings like those today. (2) How much the Bible basics that early AAs studied daily gave them reliable information on how to pray, what to read, what God expects, and what they were to do in obedience to His will. (3) Why the grounding of old-school ideas in the successes of Christian predecessors set the stage for their unique approach of acting FOR the alcoholic instead of against liquor, of insisting on abandonment of drinking of any kind, of turning to God for deliverance, and of turning their focus then to helping others get well by the same means. This was the story of the Salvation Army, the Young Men’s Christian Association, Gospel Rescue Missions, Congregationalism, and Christian Endeavor. Beginning there, we will briefly show you from history's own pages just what the old-timers did, just what their program required, just how much the help of God was utilized, and just how important giving help to others without pay or subsidy became as the hallmark of the A.A. victory story.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoGod heals alcoholics,AA Bible basics,Early AA successes,AA history,Christian Recovery todayAlcoholics and drug addicts today don't need a new therapeutic program. Nor a new treatment model. Nor criticism of a valuable society that has successfully relhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/23/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-greg-pReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/23/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-greg-p/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/23/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-greg-pSat, 23 Feb 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Greg PGreg P., our guest today, is one of the dynamic Christian recovery leaders who has helped us in the launching and growth of a number of International Christian Recovery Coalition projects, meetings, and groups in the greater San Francisco Bay Area. These important efforts include stocking and distributing a large inventory of A.A. history/Bible study volumes, conducting biblical recovery groups, reaching out to the suffering in the community, and hosting conferences for those in A.A., N.A., the dependency arena, and others who seek God's help in overcomiing addictions and being delivered from their life-controlling burdens. Greg works with the Turning Point group, part of New Hope Ministries of Cornerstone Fellowship--Livermore Campus, in Livermore, California. In our working group of Christian leaders and workers in the recovery arena--along with another Cornerstone Fellowship Christian recovery volunteer, Dominic D.--Greg has been a major California supporter of the International Christian Recovery Coalition, our informal fellowship of Christian recovery leaders and workers who emphasizethe role that God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible have played in the astonishing successes of early A.A. and its Christian predecessors, and can play right now. Today, Greg will tell us a little about himself, his family, his religious background, his education and regular employment, and his connection with the alcoholism/addiction arena. We are very thankful to have stalwart Christian recovery leaders helping grow California's Christian Recovery Movement in Livermore, Brentwood, San Jose, Pleasanton, Los Gatos, and reaching north to Oroville, California. And with that, take it away Greg.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Greg P,The Big Book,12 StepsGreg P., our guest today, is one of the dynamic Christian recovery leaders who has helped us in the launching and growth of a number of International Christianhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/18/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-rev-ron-rossReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/18/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-rev-ron-ross/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/18/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-rev-ron-rossMon, 18 Feb 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian recovery leader Rev. Ron RossIt’s not too often that we get to interview a Christian recovery leader whom we have known for many years, who has so many service stripes on his uniform we can hardly count them, and who has long supported our work.Rev. Ron Ross is our guest today. And he has so many things to tell us that this introduction will be quite short. Rev. Ron Ross is a pastor, author, teacher, and counselor. As founder of NET Casting Ministries, he equips the church around the world to care for the wounded and addicted. Ron is a cofounder of the NET Training Institute. He and his wife, Janis, have two grown daughters and reside in western North Carolina. Ron was educated in sociology and cultural anthropology at Augusta State University (1973-1977). Also in Pastoral Theology at Emory University in1975. Then in addictions at Net Training Institute (1996-1999). He lists his employment as: (1) Daddy Pete’s Plant Pleaser; (2) Dunklin International; and (3) Net Casting Ministries. Ron is also the author of “Growing Beyond Life’s Hurts: A Christ-Centered Recovery Workbook.” And we want to have him tell us about all of these to the extent time permits. Take it away Ron.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Ron Ross,The Big Book,12 StepsIt’s not too often that we get to interview a Christian recovery leader whom we have known for many years, who has so many service stripes on his uniform we canhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/17/dick-b-on-dr-bobs-christian-upbringing-and-deliveranceReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/17/dick-b-on-dr-bobs-christian-upbringing-and-deliverance/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/17/dick-b-on-dr-bobs-christian-upbringing-and-deliveranceSun, 17 Feb 2013 23:30:00 GMTDick B on Dr Bob's Christian Upbringing and DeliveranceMy first talk on the very-important Christian upbringing of A.A.'s cofounders, Bill W. and Dr. Bob, addressed that topic as to Bill W. Equally important in learning how to apply "old-school" A.A. today is the Christian upbringing and deliverance of Dr. Bob. We will tell you of the "Great Awakening" of 1875 in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, that happened in, and totally changed, the village of Dr. Bob's birth and youth. Next, about the key Christian organizations and individuals on the Vermont scene who uniquely focused on helping alcoholics and addicts by means of the power and love of God. Next, the extensive Congregationalist training Dr. Bob received. Next, his Christian Endeavor program. Next, his attendance at St. Johnsbury Academy. The role of the Young Men's Christian Association in St. Johnsbury. The special attention of all the above on healing, rather than on condemning the still-suffering. Then the remarkable Firestone story in Akron, Dr. Bob's renewed Christian pursuits in church, prayer, Christian literature, intense Bible study; and then his kneeling with a little group in prayer for deliverance. Bill W.'s unusual phone call marked the phenomenal answer to the prayers and brought Bill and Bob together for the first time. Bill moved in with the Smiths. He and Bob dived into discussing the Bible and deliverance ideas; and then came Bob's last drink and the founding of A.A., with a focus on the Bible as the answer to their problems, and particular emphasis on the essentials in the Book of James, Jesus's Sermon on the Mount, and 1 Corinthians 13. And their first successful service effort was devoted to A.A. Number Three and helping him see that the Lord would cure him, just as Bill Wilson soon confirmed to him and his wife, and reported on page 191 of the A.A. Big Book.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Dr Bob,the Big Book,Twelve StepsMy first talk on the very-important Christian upbringing of A.A.'s cofounders, Bill W. and Dr. Bob, addressed that topic as to Bill W. Equally important in learhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/04/dick-b-on-bill-ws-christian-upbringing-deliveranceReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/04/dick-b-on-bill-ws-christian-upbringing-deliverance/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/02/04/dick-b-on-bill-ws-christian-upbringing-deliveranceMon, 04 Feb 2013 05:30:00 GMTDick B on Bill W.'s Christian upbringing & DeliveranceThis talk will focus on A.A.'s Bill W. It will give you an accurate A.A. history of Bill's Christian upbringing and deliverance. There is a vital need today for a patient, studious, thorough, and brief review of each aspect of A.A.'s beginnings. My son Ken and I are about to undertake a number of meetings, workshops, and conferences from February 4 to February 12, 2013. In those talks, we will be emphasizing three points: (1) The actual language of present-day A.A. literature that shows a broad invitation to Christians and others to get the facts straight and practice them. (2) People in recovery need much more information about "old-school" A.A. and the simple program of reliance on God of the A.A. pioneers. (3) To do this effectively, audiences need to hear how the old and the new can be melded together to make recovery more palatable to believers and more effective for the suffering. But tonight, we will give you a very brief account of Bill W.'s own Christian upbringing and deliverance which is information almost every AA needs to hear.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Bill W,The Big Book,12 StepsThis talk will focus on A.A.'s Bill W. It will give you an accurate A.A. history of Bill's Christian upbringing and deliverance. There is a vital need today forhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/26/dick-b-interviews-jayson-jReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/26/dick-b-interviews-jayson-j/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/26/dick-b-interviews-jayson-jSat, 26 Jan 2013 22:30:00 GMTDick B. interviews Jayson J. Our guest today is Jayson J., MA, MARE, LCDC. Jayson has just been elected Southeast Texas Area AA Archives Chair. We were glad to connect with Jayson because many of the people we know are interested in A.A. archives work—including a number of long-time archivists. Many such people have contacted us for in-depth information on the history of A.A. and the Christian Recovery Movement. This is exciting for us because we were a part of the earliest A.A. archive days when Frank Mauser was still alive and helping to bring historians and archivists together. Often, the archives community seems focused on preservation and conservation of documents and manuscripts, while we, as writers and historians, are much more focused on unearthing the documents, reporting their locations and stewards, making their contents available in our books and articles and online, and endeavoring to make sure that sponsors, speakers, and newcomers learn what their history was. Not just that it is in a locked glass case somewhere. Based on our November 2012 research trip to the Cleveland A.A. District Office Archives, to the Akron A.A. Intergroup Archives & to Dr. Bob's Home in Akron, A.A.'s history is becoming more available. Jayson has been accumulating Oxford Group literature and A.A. memorabilia, and has a special interest in the well-known Oxford Group book For Sinners Only by A.J. Russell. As many know, I have read just about every Oxford Group book in existence and donated thousands of Oxford Group books and papers to various libraries and archives around the U.S. Now I will turn Jayson loose to share with us his passion for A.A. history and archives; his remarkable observations and questions about For Sinners Only; and information about his own family, education, professional work, religious affiliation, and plans for the future. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Jayson J,Big Book,12 StepsOur guest today is Jayson J., MA, MARE, LCDC. Jayson has just been elected Southeast Texas Area AA Archives Chair. We were glad to connect with Jayson becausehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/26/dick-b-discusses-christian-recovery-toolsReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/26/dick-b-discusses-christian-recovery-tools/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/26/dick-b-discusses-christian-recovery-toolsSat, 26 Jan 2013 05:30:00 GMTDick B. discusses Christian Recovery tools Since its founding, A.A. has survived as an ever-more-structured fellowship, but changes have occurred in its program. Its co-founders organized their “Christian fellowship” and set out with a mission to offer a cure for alcoholism involving reliance of God to all the alcoholics in the world. And early literature and news accounts document the simple, effective plan to move drunks from hopelessness to hope. We will show you the tools that can help you trace the changes. Let's review the epochs of A.A. The first three AAs got sober as believing Christians who turned to God for help and then vowed to help others. By November 1937, about 40 members had been sober for varying lengths of time. The highly-successful, "old" program is found in DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers on page 131. Bill W.'s story and the 29 other personal stories in the first edition of the Big Book (1939) discuss following that path. Around the summer or fall of 1938, Bill W. wrote "the new version of the program" that ended up in the front of the first edition. He expanded six "word-of-mouth ideas" vaguely resembling some Oxford Group ideas into 12 Steps. Bill claimed his program's three main sources were: Dr. William D. Silkworth; Professor William James, and the Oxford Group's life-changing program as Bill put it together in conference with Rev. Sam Shoemaker. Bill's "new version of the program" was very different from that described by the pioneers in their stories. Although many in A.A. today say that talking about Jesus or the Bible is inappropriate in a meeting, their claims contradict A.A.'s own history. Pages 1-164 of the fourth edition of “the Big Book” still contain 135 occurrences of the word “God." Those pages also point to the “solution" (p. 25). 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Christian Recovery tools,Big Book,12 StepsSince its founding, A.A. has survived as an ever-more-structured fellowship, but changes have occurred in its program. Its co-founders organized their “Christihttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/24/dick-b-interviews-christian-businessman-david-romanReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/24/dick-b-interviews-christian-businessman-david-roman/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/24/dick-b-interviews-christian-businessman-david-romanThu, 24 Jan 2013 20:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian businessman David Roman Our guest is David Roman, a remarkable, young, married Christian man with a child, who has fully recovered and is the proprietor of four restaurants in Orange County, California--all with the name Roman Cucina. And we first met David when he attended a small conference in San Juan Capistrano, came up to me after the talk, said he was a Christian and that he wanted to learn how to sponsor people. But that was only a beginning. Before long, David began distributing free my A.A. history and Christian Recovery books to his family, employees, church friends, and recovery fellowship contacts. He catered free of charge large Christian Recovery Conferences we held in His Place Church, and was working with others in the International Christian Recovery Coalition to bring Jesus Christ back into the recovery picture and help others learn what God could do for them if they sought His help today. He took a special interest in the three segments of the Bible early AAs considered absolutely essential--Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, the Book of James, and 1 Corinthians 13. And he freely distributed our most popular book, The Good Book and The Big Book: A.A.'s Roots in the Bible. David got to know and work with many Christian recovery leaders in his area and church. Not long ago, he announced to Ken and me that he wanted to set up a new type of Christian Sober Living Home. It is called Freedom House. He placed in charge of the home his and our friend Danny Simmons--a devoted, recovered Christian who lives in Costa Mesa. It is under the supervision of Dr. Robert Tucker, founder and president of New Life Spirit Recovery, Inc., in Huntington Beach. Dr. Tucker is also President of the Association of Christian Alcohol and Drug Counselors, trains Christian counselors, conducts a Christian treatment program in Huntington Beach, and is very active in church life. David will tell you about his life, plans, family, goals. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,David Roman,Big Book,12 StepsOur guest is David Roman, a remarkable, young, married Christian man with a child, who has fully recovered and is the proprietor of four restaurants in Orangehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/15/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-alan-mccReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/15/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-alan-mcc/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/15/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-alan-mccTue, 15 Jan 2013 04:30:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian recovery leader Alan McC Alan McC. is our guest today. He and his family vacation, and  have visited us, on Maui, and attend a Christian church here. Alan resides in Clayton, California, and is retired. He's an avid Big Book student and teacher, and has long been an active AA. He participates in the International Christian Recovery Coalition. He and his wife reach out to still-suffering alcoholics in many ways, including support for CityTeam International. He'll tell us his vigorous exercise and sports life--golf, swimming, diving, hiking, and running. He and his wife have a condo on Maui. And Alan’s Big Book and 12-Step knowledge have been extremely helpful to us, particularly since Ken and I have turned our latest research and publishing work to  telling AAs and others just how much there is in present-day A.A. General Service Conference-approved literature that encourages the interests of those alcoholics who want God’s help, who want to invoke it in their own 12-Step Fellowships, and who are looking for the ample historical facts that show the principles and practices of the A.A. “Christian fellowship” founded in Akron in 1935 are quite appropriate in A.A. today. We believe that emphasis can significantly help Christian leaders and workers in the recovery arena, as well as Christian newcomers, understand what the early Christian AAs did with such great success in 1935-1939; how Bill Wilson’s “new version of the program” (including the 12 Steps) altered the highly-successful “old program” yet retained its basic stress on the power of God; and how the two programs meld together for believers needing and wanting God’s help. Alan will tell about his drinking days, education, family, training, career, and his vigorous service to God and others. Take it away, Alan! 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Alan McC,Big Book,12 StepsAlan McC. is our guest today. He and his family vacation, and  have visited us, on Maui, and attend a Christian church here. Alan resides in Clayton, Californihttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/14/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-don-zReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/14/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-don-z/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/14/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-don-zMon, 14 Jan 2013 04:00:00 GMTDick B. interviews Christian recovery leader Don Z Don Z. is our guest this evening. We met Don not long ago at a vibrant Christian 12-Step meeting in Los Gatos, California. And we discovered Don is no stranger to 12 Step recovery programs and Christian recovery fellowships. Don has been sober since December 28, 1989, and his home group is Saturday Nite Live in San Jose, California. Don received his ministerial credential in 1991. He lives in Saratoga, California, and is the founder/director for Joy of the Lord Ministries which was birthed from Don's home from within Saturday Nite Live. It is a ministry of the Abundant Life Assembly of God Church in Cupertino, California. JOTL Ministries has a website at joyofthelordrecovery.com. Don has been married 16 years to his bride Robin who runs her own Christ Al-Anon meeting. They have four children between them and are grandparents to Cruz Sunrise who is 7 weeks old. We hope to hear more about Don's education, vocation, religious background, and a little about his drinking and using period. He says: "Our family has been revolutionized by the Lord Jesus, the anonymous power in the 12 Step rooms of recovery and are committed to being the best children of God that they can be. As Don knows, Ken and I are very enthused about establishing a working group, workshops, and network of Christian leaders and workers in the South San Francisco Bay Area. This is a major mission of International Christian Recovery Coalition for  2013; and we are eagerly awaiting some information today from Don about Saturday Nite Live, Joy of the Lord Ministries, Abundant Life Assembly of God Church, and the Christian Recovery Network back to life. I understand he is working to that end with Doug Nunes, Director of Recovery, Calvary Church in Los Gatos. Such a network of Christian leaders and workers in recovery now exist in various parts of the United States; and we look forward to working with one in the San Jose-South Bay Area. Take it away, Don. 00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Don Z,Big Book,12 StepsDon Z. is our guest this evening. We met Don not long ago at a vibrant Christian 12-Step meeting in Los Gatos, California. And we discovered Don is no strangerhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/13/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-royce-dockrillReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/13/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-royce-dockrill/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/13/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-royce-dockrillSun, 13 Jan 2013 04:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Royce Dockrill Our guest this evening is Royce Dockrill of British Columbia. Royce and his wife own and manage a recovery treatment center in Kelowna, BC, Canada. And I first met both them at a large conference of the International Christian Recovery Coalition held recently at The Crossing Church in Costa Mesa, California. When the conference was concluding both Royce and his wife came up to me, introduced themselves as Christian leaders and managers of a treatment program in Canada, and showed an interest in the Christian Recovery Movement. Since then, I have been in touch with the Dockrills by email, telephone, and mail, and have learned of the growth of their work in Canada. Tonight, Royce will give us the details of his alcoholism and addiction treatment facility, its address, location, phone, and email. He will also tell us about the founding of the program and the actual scope of its recovery program. We will also learn the various segments of the program, the accommodations, treatment staff, and counseling segments. And Royce will tell us how the program has grown up to now, and the plans he and his wife have for the future. We also look forward to hearing some details about Royce and his wife, where they live, their families, education, training, and religious background. And, in a general way, their drinking and using background. Also, any certified people at their facility, and the training, experience, and specialties they have. We hope our guest will tell us his views of recovery as a Christian, as to 12 Step programs, as to his own recovery philosophy, and as to plans for the future We would appreciate any comments on the fellowship, mission, and projects of the International Christian Recovery Coalition (www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com). Take it away, Royce. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Royce Dockrill,Big Book,12 StepsOur guest this evening is Royce Dockrill of British Columbia. Royce and his wife own and manage a recovery treatment center in Kelowna, BC, Canada. And I firsthttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/12/dick-b-interviews-doug-nunes-of-calvary-church-los-gatos-2Religionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/12/dick-b-interviews-doug-nunes-of-calvary-church-los-gatos-2/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/12/dick-b-interviews-doug-nunes-of-calvary-church-los-gatos-2Sat, 12 Jan 2013 04:30:00 GMTDick B interviews Doug Nunes of Calvary Church Los Gatos #2 Our guest this evening is Doug Nunes of Calvary Church in Los Gatos, California. This is our second interview of Doug. We undertook it because of the great strides Doug has been making in the recovery arena--meeting with Christian leaders, pastors, and workers. We do this interview primarily because of the immense activity, organizational ability, and service to the Lord Jesus Christ that Doug has been involved in since we first met  him not long ago. Doug's Christian recovery work is a case study in how an energetic, devoted, recovered, former alcoholic-addict can rise up as a leader in his 12-Step fellowship and in his church. Recovered Christian believers like Doug can become privileged leaders who bless their pastor and  church with a new broadened Christian recovery program and persuade both pastor and church of the importance of of a care ministry that reaches out to alcoholics, addicts, codependents, homeless, and the imprisoned with a strong message that God can help them. We spoke recently at Calvary Church in Los Gatos. This was in a special hall Doug persuaded his church to make available for recovery work. Doug has an office there. And when we spoke, the hall was loaded with an audience of alcoholics, addicts, 12 Steppers, recovering Christians, and others needing help. The topic was the history of A.A. and the Christian recovery movement. Tonight Doug will speak on 3 major recovery plans he's working on. (1) He is making a trip to a number of key successful church groups, recovery fellowships, and treatment leaders who are reaching out the way he is planning. (2).We will  speak on the role God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible can play in recovery. (3) Doug will help grow Christian recovery work in his area.  Finally, Doug is now working on Spring events with other pastoral counselors, recovery leaders, and 12 Step groups. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoDoug Nunes,Alcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Big Book,12 StepsOur guest this evening is Doug Nunes of Calvary Church in Los Gatos, California. This is our second interview of Doug. We undertook it because of the great strhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/11/ken-b-speaks-about-henrietta-seiberlings-role-in-early-aaReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/11/ken-b-speaks-about-henrietta-seiberlings-role-in-early-aa/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/11/ken-b-speaks-about-henrietta-seiberlings-role-in-early-aaFri, 11 Jan 2013 04:00:00 GMTKen B speaks about Henrietta Seiberling's role in early AAHenrietta Seiberling's role in early A.A. is relatively unknown. Dick B.'s book, Henrietta B. Seiberling: Ohio's Lady with a Cause, begins to address the lack of information about one of the important Christian women whose "spiritual infusion" in the early days of A.A. was so important to A.A.'s success--especially in Akron.00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Henrietta Seiberling,Big Book,12 StepsHenrietta Seiberling's role in early A.A. is relatively unknown. Dick B.'s book, Henrietta B. Seiberling: Ohio's Lady with a Cause, begins to address the lack ohttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/08/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-brian-hughesReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/08/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-brian-hughes/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/08/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-brian-hughesTue, 08 Jan 2013 20:30:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery Leader Brian Hughes Today's Christian Recovery Radio Interview guest is Brian Hughes of Florida. Through his Recovery Bible Study work, Brian has been a supporter and help in our Christian Recovery Movement for a number of years. He is located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and now very much involved in the forthcoming February 8-9 CROSSFlorida Christian recovery conference in Miami. Brian will bless us with some of the following information that can be helpful to our listeners: (1) His own family ties, educational and religious background, his business and vocational background and efforts, career. and a bit about his alcoholism and addiction experiences. (2) His specialty relating to social media. (3) The website and mission of Recovery Bible Study in Florida and its activities.. (4) His connection with, role in, and the growing enthusiasm for the upcoming CROSSFlorida.org conference.in Miaami, and (5) the growth and Florida support for the Christian Recovery Movement, and the roles of Dick B. and Ken B. in that through International Christian Recovery Coalition (www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com). We are particularly deiigthed to have Brian talk with us today because Christian recovery outreach in Florida is really hot at this time from our standpoint. Attorney Russell Spatz has traveled from Miami to two of our Christian Recovery leadership conferences in California and spoken of his part in Christian recovery. His talks on recovery, Jesus Christ, the Bible, the Steps, and the Big Book are posted on our Christian Recovery Radio website. And Brian's supportive role, and that of several of the conference speakers are something our Florida followers are eagerly awaiting. Take it away  Brian 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,Christian Recovery Conferences,Recovery Bible Study,CROSSFlorida Event Feb 8-9,Role in of God in recoveryToday's Christian Recovery Radio Interview guest is Brian Hughes of Florida. Through his Recovery Bible Study work, Brian has been a supporter and help in ourhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/06/dick-b-talks-about-the-latest-on-old-school-aaReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/06/dick-b-talks-about-the-latest-on-old-school-aa/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2013/01/06/dick-b-talks-about-the-latest-on-old-school-aaSun, 06 Jan 2013 22:00:00 GMTDick B. Talks about the latest on "old-school" A.A. This spring, the International Christian Recovery Coalition will continue its educational efforts to tell the recovery world about the "God is" option that exists and has always existed in Alcoholics Anonymous and recovery fellowships--whether they be Christian, 12-Step, or secular. Recovery today seeks and seems to attract suffering alcoholics and addicts who are at the mercy of whatever recovery therapy they happen to find, someone recommends, or courts and counselors require. And today, more often than not, that recovery effort asks little more than a desire to quit drinking or using, and attendance at meetings. The days of Christian recovery organizations, professionals, and altruistic help from fellow afflicted souls who look to God for help have been in a diminishing stance for a couple of decades. At the same time, there has been a revival, an immense new growth among believers to go back to the highly-successful First Century "Christianity fellowship" techniques that the Akron A.A. pioneers adopted and victoriously applied from A.A.'s earliest days in 1935. Dick B. and Ken B. have devoted 23 years now to researching and publicizing that "God is" option that can and will produce recovery and healing from alcoholism and addiction, if sought. Other options exist in abundance, but those who are Christians or at least believe in God deserve to know what God can and will do for them today if and when He is sought. There are three major tools Dick and Ken will use in 2013 to illuminate the Divine help approach. The first is the personal stories of the A.A. pioneers that occupied the greatest number of pages in the first edition of A.A.'s basic text. The second involves the summary of the original Christian fellowship already underlined in much of A.A.'s own Conference-approved literature. The third is the message that all AAs and recovery work ought to carry.  00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,Dick B Early AA,Big Book Personal Stories,AA Conference Approved,AA HistoryThis spring, the International Christian Recovery Coalition will continue its educational efforts to tell the recovery world about the "God is" option that exihttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/12/29/ken-b-talks-about-pioneer-stories-in-alcoholics-anonymousReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/12/29/ken-b-talks-about-pioneer-stories-in-alcoholics-anonymous/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/12/29/ken-b-talks-about-pioneer-stories-in-alcoholics-anonymousSat, 29 Dec 2012 21:00:00 GMTKen B talks about Pioneer Stories in Alcoholics AnonymousDick B.'s son Ken talks about the new book he and his dad released this month, Pioneer Stories in Alcoholics Anonymous: God's Role in Recovery Confirmed! (December 2012). When Bill W. and Dr. Bob met in Akron, Ohio, on May 12, 1935 (Mother's Day), both were members of a group named "A First Century Christian Fellowship" (also known as the Oxford Group). Bill and Bob developed a program of recovery over the summer of 1935 which John D. Rockefeller's agent Frank Amos summarized in seven points in February 1938. (See DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers, 131.) As Dr. Bob said in his last major talk: "In early A.A. days, . . . we were convinced that the answer to our problems was in the Good Book." (See The Co-Founders of Alcoholics Anonymous: Biograhical Sketches: Their Last Major Talks, Item # P-53, page 13.) After Bill and Bob "counted the noses" of those who had recovered as of November 1937, Bill was commissioned to write a book that would present the highly-successful, original Akron A.A. "Christian fellowship" program. (See DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers, 123 and 118.) Bill W., however, wrote what he called "the new version of the program, now the 'Twelve Steps.'" (See Alcoholics Anonymous Comes of Age, 162.) Bill's statement at the Rockefeller Dinner on February 8, 1940, that A.A. claimed a 75% success rate among "seemingly-hopeless," "medically-incurable" alcoholics who thoroughly followed their path is mainly speaking about the original Akron program, as the Big Book had only been published April 10, 1939. When Clarence S. founded the A.A. group in Cleveland, which had a documented 93% success rate without relapse(!), he had done it with "by keeping most of the 'old program,' including the Bible and the Four Absolutes." (See Mitchell K., How It Worked, 108.) Our new book talks about success00:31:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous history,Big Book,12 Steps,Pioneer Stories in Alcoholics Anonymous,AA first edition 1939Dick B.'s son Ken talks about the new book he and his dad released this month, Pioneer Stories in Alcoholics Anonymous: God's Role in Recovery Confirmed! (Decemhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/12/27/dick-b-interviews-monty-meyer-of-take-12-recovery-radioReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/12/27/dick-b-interviews-monty-meyer-of-take-12-recovery-radio/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/12/27/dick-b-interviews-monty-meyer-of-take-12-recovery-radioThu, 27 Dec 2012 23:30:00 GMTDick B interviews Monty Meyer of Take 12 Recovery RadioOurs is a Christian recovery radio interview show where we hear from recovered alcoholics and addicts and Christian Recovery leaders and workers we have met in the last 23 years of travel and research. Monty Meyer of Albany, Oregon, is certainly such a leader. He is a dedicated, recovered, 12 Stepper, and a strong supporter of the roles of God and His Son Jesus Christ and the Bible in the recovery arena. He has produced many "A.A. History with Dick B." radio shows where I have told of the history of A.A., its founders and pioneers, the origins of the 12 Steps, the biblical roots of the 12 Steps, and the early A.A. "Christian fellowship" and leaders in Akron. Today, we will hear Monty tell us a bit about his background, substance abuse period, recovery interests, Christian service, and Take12Radio.com. Take12Radio.com has a worldwide audience as I found when a group in Dubai phoned me in Hawaii to tell me they were a Bible study group listening to my comments on Monty's show. Having recovered from some serious illness bouts, Monty has sallied forth anew with some top notch speakers and music on his show. And I'm sure he will clue us in on what he is doing now and plans to do in the months to come to provide further service to the alcoholic or addict who still suffers, and let him or her learn from those who are laboring hard to help others find help from our Creator. Take it away, Monty00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoMonty Meyer,Take 12 Radio dot com,Monty 12 Step Radio Show,AA History,Christian Recovery in AAOurs is a Christian recovery radio interview show where we hear from recovered alcoholics and addicts and Christian Recovery leaders and workers we have met inhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/12/22/dick-b-speaks-about-aa-history-the-top-cleveland-resultsReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/12/22/dick-b-speaks-about-aa-history-the-top-cleveland-results/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/12/22/dick-b-speaks-about-aa-history-the-top-cleveland-resultsSat, 22 Dec 2012 21:30:00 GMTDick B Speaks about AA History & the Top Cleveland Results The third A.A. group in the world was founded on May 11, 1939, in Cleveland, Ohio. It had a documented 93% success rate, and grew from one group to 30 in a year. The International Christian Recovery Coalition undertook research  there in November 2012 and report here what we found. The Group's founder, Clarence S., brought the Bible, the Four Absolutes, the Big Book and its 12 Steps, and "most of the old program" from Akron. We therefore traveled to both Cleveland and Akron and saw vivid pictures of recovery successes. Splendid resources today tell the Cleveland recovery story in the words of eye witnesses: "Our Legacy to the Faith Community" by 3 Clarence Snyder sponsees. "That Amazing Grace: The Role of Clarence and Grace S. in A.A." by Dick B. "How It  Worked: The Story of Clarence H. Snyder and The Early Days of Alcoholics Anonymous in Cleveland Ohio" by Mitchell K. And Clarence Snyder's "My Higher Power the Light Bulb" and "Going Through the Steps." Cleveland built upon the success factors of early Akron A.A., including qualification of newcomers, hospitalization, Bible, prayer, the Oxford Group 4 Absolutes, the Big Book, and taking the 12 Steps in two days. It founded the "Cleveland Central Bulletin." We have the first three years of that paper. They are loaded with information about what those AAs did. The masthead featured the 4 Absolutes. The front page featured a prayer. There was an Editorial, a discussion of the Steps, News from the Camps, Bible , coverage of numerous events like bowling, baseball, clam bakes, choir, Mass Meetings, Conferences, picnics, a minstrel show, dances, and even a clergyman's round table. Clarence S. depicted Ohio AA as "Trust God, Clean House, Help Others" and NY as "Don't Drink. Go to Meetings." 00:27:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA history,Early Cleveland AA,Cleveland AA 93 percent success,AA Cleveland Central BulletinThe third A.A. group in the world was founded on May 11, 1939, in Cleveland, Ohio. It had a documented 93% success rate, and grew from one group to 30 in a yeahttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/12/21/dick-b-speaks-about-aa-history-for-2013Religionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/12/21/dick-b-speaks-about-aa-history-for-2013/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/12/21/dick-b-speaks-about-aa-history-for-2013Fri, 21 Dec 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B. speaks about AA history for 2013 The year 2013 is almost upon us. 2013 marks the 23rd year of our publishing research on A.A. History virtually unknown to AAs, alcoholics, and recovery workers for decades. But the scene has changed. No longer are history-hungry alcoholics and addicts limited to reading learned papers thirty years old, or official publications that never quite told the whole story. In fact, for the past 3 years, International Christian Recovery Coalition has grown and grown in worldwide participation, projects, research teams, and Christian recovery leaders and workers. And this next year will make the application of this history known and effective to thousands who still suffer. My son Ken and I have just published two books that will start the ball rolling. The first is Stick with the Winners--a documented report on what A.A.'s own Conference-approved literature already supports in terms of using old school A.A.program techniques today. The second is Pioneer Stories in Alcoholics Anonymous: God's Role in Recovery Confirmed! Here we let the early AAs tell in their own personal stories--so long removed from public view--exactly what they did in their AA if Akron Christian Fellowship to establish their relationships with God and be healed. And the shibboleth that a suffering drunk can manufacture, fashion or choose his own conception of some idol or false God is now on its way out with actual proof. A  third book is Carry This Message. It is a personalized account of how Dick and Ken took Dick's own 12th Step sponsorship of many years and enabled newcomers to learn their own history,rely on the Christian techniques of old timers, and do so in today's A.A. We will tell you how this will be utilized this coming year.   00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA history,AA for 2013,Alcoholics Anonymous,Christian Recovery for 2013,Major recovery news for 2013The year 2013 is almost upon us. 2013 marks the 23rd year of our publishing research on A.A. History virtually unknown to AAs, alcoholics, and recovery workershttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/10/10/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-dr-douglas-himesReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/10/10/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-dr-douglas-himes/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/10/10/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-dr-douglas-himesWed, 10 Oct 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian recovery leader Dr Douglas Himes Our guest today is Dr. Douglas D. Himes. Dr. Himes is a participant in the International Christian Recovery Coalition. Among other items, Dr. Himes will be telling us about his latest book, Higher Power: Seeking God in 12-Step Recovery. And I am pleased to say that I was asked to write an endorsement of this book and did so. Douglas D. Himes, Ph.D., is a trained spiritual director, as well as retreat and workshop leader. He provides spiritual counsel at Cumberland Heights (a leading alcohol and drug treatment center, in Nashville, Tennessee). Many years back, I was honored to address patients and staff at Cumberland on the spiritual history of Alcoholics Anonymous. Doug will tell us briefly about his background, family, religion, education, and present work. He knows his Bible and his Big Book. And—like the authors of the Big Book—plainly states that the much-used and overused “higher power” language in 12 Step programs was intended to refer to God, and how to find Him. Doug will also tell us about his writings, his counseling approaches, and what he does to advance the Christian recovery movement. And now to Doug Himes. Take it away, Doug. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholism and AA,God and AA,Big Book and AA,Bible and AA,Christian recoveryOur guest today is Dr. Douglas D. Himes. Dr. Himes is a participant in the International Christian Recovery Coalition. Among other items, Dr. Himes will be telhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/24/dick-b-interviews-jim-h-about-sept-vermont-trip-part-2Religionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/24/dick-b-interviews-jim-h-about-sept-vermont-trip-part-2/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/24/dick-b-interviews-jim-h-about-sept-vermont-trip-part-2Mon, 24 Sep 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Jim H about Sept Vermont trip Part 2 Our guest will be Jim H. of Auburn, Washington. He participated in and photographed every phase of the International Christian Recovery Coalition’s Alcoholics Anonymous history and Christian Recovery Movement workshops and studies of the upbringings of A.A.'s cofounders, Bill W. and Dr. Bob, in the State of Vermont. His interview covers his recollections, photography work, slide-show photographs, and comments on the workshops at the places listed below. Burlington, Vermont--Sept. 2. St. Johnsbury, Vermont: center of Dr. Bob’s boyhood Christian upbringing, Sept. 3-5: Fairbanks Inn; Fairbanks Scales Plant; Dr. Bob’s boyhood home at 20 Summer Street (now 297 Summer Street); Summer Street School; North Congregational Church (the "Dr. Bob Core Library"); Fairbanks Museum; the Young Men’s Christian Association building; the Courthouse; the house and public offices across the street; the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum; and the St. Johnsbury Academy and Grace Orcutt Library. Northfield, Vermont--Sept. 6: Norwich Military Academy and Kreitzberg Library. Gill, Massachusetts--Sept. 6: Dwight L. Moody's Mount Hermon School and Schauffler Library. Manchester, Vermont--Sept 7-8: Burr and Burton Seminary; Rev. Sidney K. Perkins' home; the First Congregational Church of Manchester; the Burnham summer home; the George Thacher summer home; the Mark Skinner Library; and Zion Episcopal Church. East Dorset and Emerald Lake, Vermont—Sept. 7 and 8: The East Dorset Congregational Church, the Wilson House, the Griffith House and Library, and nearby Mount Aeolus. Rutland, Vermont—Sept. 8: the Wilson home on Chestnut Street, the Church Street School; the Grace Congregational Church. Burlington, Vermont—Sept. 9: The Bailey Howe Library. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA history photos,Vermont AA history,AA Vermont Christians,AA recovery,Christian recoveryOur guest will be Jim H. of Auburn, Washington. He participated in and photographed every phase of the International Christian Recovery Coalition’s Alcoholicshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/23/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-bill-boyles-2Religionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/23/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-bill-boyles-2/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/23/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-bill-boyles-2Sun, 23 Sep 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Bill Boyles #2 Today’s guest is William Boyles of Wyoming, Delaware. Bill returns for this interview because of the major role he plays in our quest for Alcoholics Anonymous history and the roots of the Christian Recovery Movement. More significantly, because of his role in supporting and participating deeply in our recent, week-long workshops in the State of Vermont. Bill twice came to East Dorset, Vermont, years back to participate in my weekend A.A. history seminars at the Wilson House. He distributes free large quantities of our history books. He was a major sponsor of the Second Nationwide History Conference in Delaware. He left a prestigious job with a Delaware utility, formed a non-profit Christian Recovery program called Won Way Out, and also traveled from Delaware to Brentwood, (Southern) California, to be a speaker at our Christian Recovery conference there. Bill is a devoted Christian, a long-recovered AA, and much involved in recovery outreach in his community, churches, and 12 Step meetings Not surprisingly, when Bill came up to Vermont to be a participant in the A.A. history workshops there, he brought a newcomer who probably enthused more over the many places visited than anyone else in our group. Today, Bill will tell us about the workshops, the Vermont locations, the historical findings, and the challenges unearthed at St. Johnsbury and Norwich University. He will also discuss our meetings in Manchester and the trip in general. Take it away, Bill 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA history,The role of Vermont in AA history,The Christian beginnings of AA in Vermong,Bill W Dr Bob Ebby Thacher,Christian Recovery VermontToday’s guest is William Boyles of Wyoming, Delaware. Bill returns for this interview because of the major role he plays in our quest for Alcoholics Anonymoushttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/22/dick-b-discusses-his-new-book-on-the-1st-ed-personal-storiesReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/22/dick-b-discusses-his-new-book-on-the-1st-ed-personal-stories/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/22/dick-b-discusses-his-new-book-on-the-1st-ed-personal-storiesSat, 22 Sep 2012 20:30:00 GMTDick B discusses his new book on the 1st ed personal stories Dick B.’s Interview will cover the newly-released book by Dick B. and Ken B., God, His Son Jesus Christ, & the Bible in Early A.A.: The Long-Overlooked Personal Stories in the First Edition of Alcoholics Anonymous. The personal stories have been in limbo for decades. Yet they show exactly how A.A. pioneers practiced the early A.A. “Christian fellowship” program founded in 1935. Piece by piece, the stories were removed after the first edition, and their removal left AAs in a quandary: What did their original program look like? Could it be applied today. The early program is summarized on page 131 of DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers. The 16 principles and practices are specified in The Dick B. Christian Recovery Guide. Today, Dick B. will read excerpts from the personal stories in the A.A. General Service Conference-approved book: Experience, Strength & Hope: Stories from the First Three Editions of Alcoholics Anonymous (2003). Each excerpt is a pioneer's testimonial in his own language and from his own point of view as to how he practiced the pioneer program. How he sought God's help. How he renounced liquor, read the Bible, prayed, sought God’s guidance, and endeavored to obey God’s will. Once cured, he helped others apply that program. These are not war stories. Not “drunkalogs.” Not recitals about the Twelve Steps and the Big Book because, in early A.A., there was no Big Book, and there were no Steps at all. You will remember these pithy statements long after you have forgotten the endless, wearying, drinking tales in today’s 12 Step programs. You will remember these personal stories because they speak of the power and love of God. You will remember them because they show that the Lord cured early AAs of their alcoholism. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoBig Book personal stories,AA history,Old school AA,Conference approved answers,Christian recovery todayDick B.’s Interview will cover the newly-released book by Dick B. and Ken B., God, His Son Jesus Christ, & the Bible in Early A.A.: The Long-Overlooked Personahttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/21/dick-b-interviews-ken-b-about-the-book-on-the-1st-ed-storiesReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/21/dick-b-interviews-ken-b-about-the-book-on-the-1st-ed-stories/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/21/dick-b-interviews-ken-b-about-the-book-on-the-1st-ed-storiesFri, 21 Sep 2012 21:30:00 GMTDick B interviews Ken B about the book on the 1st ed stories My son Ken B. is today's gueat. He'll discuss our new book, God, His Son Jesus Christ & the Bible in Early A.A.: The Long-Overlooked Personal Stories in the First Edition of Alcoholics Anonymous.. That first A.A. edition produced split programs. It contained what Bill Wilson called “the new version of the program” centered on the 12 Steps. Yet its major part contained the “Personal Stories”--testimonials by A.A. pioneers as to how they practiced the original Akron “Christian fellowship” program. Bill thus wrote a new program of 12 Steps. The pioneers wrote what they had practiced—when there were no Steps or Big Book. Our book, God, His Son Jesus Christ & the Bible in Early A.A., shows the recovery movement's loss when 22 of the first edition's 29 personal stories were not included in the 2nd and following editions of the Big Book. And four more of those stories were not included in the 4th edition. Today, at last, readers can learn what the highly-successful A.A. pioneers really did in the early days. They can see exactly the principles and practices of “old-school” A.A. that enabled the 75% success rate A.A. claimed for the period before the Steps and the Big Book. They'll see from testimonies the great role that God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible played in the whole recovery movement. They can also learn about the strange insertion in the 1st edition of the alleged advice by Ebby Thacher to Bill that Bill could choose his own conception of God. Ken is an ordained Christian Minister and has  been intensely involved in Bible study, research, and sources since age 17. Since 1986, he's helped me by conducting home Bible fellowships for those AAs I'd found wanted God’s help.     00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA Personal Stories Removed,Dick B and Ken B books,AA History,Christian Recovery Guides,AA Steps and Big BookMy son Ken B. is today's gueat. He'll discuss our new book, God, His Son Jesus Christ & the Bible in Early A.A.: The Long-Overlooked Personal Stories in the Fihttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/20/dick-b-interviews-jim-h-about-the-sept-2012-vermont-tripReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/20/dick-b-interviews-jim-h-about-the-sept-2012-vermont-trip/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/09/20/dick-b-interviews-jim-h-about-the-sept-2012-vermont-tripThu, 20 Sep 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Jim H about the Sept 2012 Vermont trip Our guest today is Jim H. from the State of Washington. Jim played a major role in the September 2-9, 2012, A.A. history and Christian Recovery workshops held in Vermont. These workshops enabled a cadre of recovery leaders with long-term sobriety to gather in Vermont and (1) learn about the origins of Alcoholics Anonymous and its Christian roots in St. Johnsbury, East Dorset, Rutland, Manchester, and Northfield, Vermont; (2) help dedicate the “Dr. Bob Core Library” at North Congregational Church, St. Johnsbury; and (3) record in digital pictures and on videotape the key locations and activities that were part of our workshops. Jim came all the way from Auburn, Washington, to Vermont. He drove my son Ken and me to the many locations we visited. He was with us every step of the way. He took some 800 pictures tol be placed on the Web and elsewhere. The signs, campuses, libraries, and buildings. Also, pictures of photos and text in many books, newspapers, and articles. In A.A., Jim has served as an Archivist and service person, led many meetings, and sponsored many newcomers. He is also a retired Air Force Master Sergeant. Jim and others researched the East Dorset part in depth. He visited and took pictures of the Wilson House, Griffith House Library, East Dorset Congregational Church, and the cemetery where many Wilson relatives are buried Jim H. is an International Christian Recovery Coalition participant and one of the sponsors of our trip. He'll now work with several workshop participants helping us publish all the photos on the Web and elsewhere. He will tell us briefly of his military service, drinking period, involvement in A.A., and life today. He'll also report on the Vermont workshops, high points of the trip, what he personally found there, and his future work on the aftermath, plus plans to pass on accurate A.A. history.  00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoA A Vermont Roots,A A History Workshops,New Era of AA History,AA Christian roots,Cofounders of AAOur guest today is Jim H. from the State of Washington. Jim played a major role in the September 2-9, 2012, A.A. history and Christian Recovery workshops heldhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/08/31/dick-b-discusses-his-second-title-released-this-monthReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/08/31/dick-b-discusses-his-second-title-released-this-month/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/08/31/dick-b-discusses-his-second-title-released-this-monthFri, 31 Aug 2012 20:30:00 GMTDick B discusses his second title released this month In our second special “Christian Recovery Radio with Dick B.” show, we will highlight our latest book, Bill W. and Dr. Bob, the Green Mountain Men of Vermont: The Roots of Early A.A.’s Original Program. This special show is presented on the eve of our 10-day trip to Vermont where we will present A.A. history workshops in Burlington, St. Johnsbury, Northfield, Manchester, and East Dorset, Vermont. Places where one can find the real evidence of the Christian upbringings of three key figures in early A.A: (1) A.A. cofounder Bill Wilson; (2) A.A. cofounder Dr. Bob Smith; and (3) the man that Bill Wilson called his sponsor, Ebby Thacher. We will present a brief overview of the 13 chapters in our new book by highlighting five important topics covered in the book: (1) The long-overdue return to A.A.’s Vermont roots and the trails that led us there. (2) What was going on with Bill Wilson, his friend Ebby, Rowland Hazard, Shep Cornell, and Cebra Graves at East Dorset, Manchester, Burr and Burton Academy, and other Vermont locations. (3) St. Johnsbury individuals, organizations, and institutions that directly impacted Dr. Bob’s ideas. (4) How these happenings relate to A.A.’s “original program.” (5) How the detailed facts presented in our book can help others today.   00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA cofounders,AA Bill W and Dr Bob,AA history,Christian Recovery,AA Vermont rootsIn our second special “Christian Recovery Radio with Dick B.” show, we will highlight our latest book, Bill W. and Dr. Bob, the Green Mountain Men of Vermont:http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/08/30/dick-b-discusses-his-new-book-released-this-monthReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/08/30/dick-b-discusses-his-new-book-released-this-month/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/08/30/dick-b-discusses-his-new-book-released-this-monthThu, 30 Aug 2012 05:00:00 GMTDick B discusses his new book released this monthAnnouncing Dick B.'s New Book: A.A. Literature Frequently Mentioning God, His Son Jesus Christ & the Bible: The Long Over-looked Big Book Personal Stories Our new book is written for the many A.A. Christians who don’t know how many A.A. Conference-approved personal stories about early A.A.'s "Christian fellowship" are overlooked today and lacking in authority and application today. This new book is a “must” if you want to know and apply the power and love of God in A.A. fellowships. We show the damage wrought by language about early A.A.’s supposed flying blind, trial and error, and uneducated groping. Christians have lost touch with early cured Christian AAs A.A.'s own Experience, Strength and Hope: Stories from the First Three Editions of Alcoholics Anonymous has ended claims that early stories are not “conference-approved” and  not relevant today. Long-removed early stories have precise descriptions of how pioneers successfully followed the Akron program found in DR. BOB and the Good Oldtimers on page 131. They often make explicit references to God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible. We discuss a handwritten insertion in the printer’s manuscript that caused many newcomers to assume no belief in God is importtant, that they can choose “a god of their own conception," or that they should believe an absurd name for a higher power such as light bulb, chair, or Santa Claus will suffice. But none of these ideas is representative of A.A. before 1939. The personal stories toss a reliable life saver to today's newcomers daring to seek Almighty God's help.    00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoDick B,Big Book stories,AA history,Christian Recovery,12 StepsAnnouncing Dick B.'s New Book: A.A. Literature Frequently Mentioning God, His Son Jesus Christ & the Bible: The Long Over-looked Big Book Personal Stories Ourhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/08/09/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-leonard-gReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/08/09/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-leonard-g/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/08/09/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-leonard-gThu, 09 Aug 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Leonard Grubb   Our guest today is Chaplain/Pastor Leonard Grubb of Painesville, Ohio. Leonard heads up Christian Community Missions and The Big Book-Good Book Discussion Group. The International Christian Recovery Coalition appreciates his participation. Not only is he a Christian recovery leader; he is also a member of our Speakers Bureau and has established a Christian Recovery Resource Center to serve his community. Leonard is just the kind of Christian recovery leader now rising up among Christian alcoholics today--ones who are forming First Century Christian fellowships and telling those who still suffer how turning to God is a reliable key to success in overcoming alcoholism. Leonard speaks boldly about God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible. And he speaks freely about how to conduct a Big Book-Good Book Discussion Group. A fellowship to convey to the recovery community that God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible played very clear roles in early Alcoholics Anonymous. The result? A.A. claims a 75% success rate among the "seemingly-hopeless," "medically-incurable," "real" alcoholics of early A.A. who wanted God’s help and were willing to go to any length to get it. Leonard mentions the 93% success rate achieved and documented in early Cleveland A.A. A fellowship which grew from 1 group to 30 in a year’s time. I’m sure Leonard will tell us about his family, business, faith, 27 years of sobriety, recovery work, and service as a chaplain and ordained pastor. Leonard speaks clearly on A.A., sobriety, and becoming a new man in Christ. He represents the recovered alcoholic who chose to rely on God, accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, read the Bible, ask for help, and serve God and others. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoChaplain Pastor Leonard Grubb,Painesville Ohio Chaplain,Early AA History,Christians in AA,Jesus Christ a center for recoveryOur guest today is Chaplain/Pastor Leonard Grubb of Painesville, Ohio. Leonard heads up Christian Community Missions and The Big Book-Good Book Discussion Ghttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/30/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-steve-foremanReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/30/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-steve-foreman/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/30/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-steve-foremanMon, 30 Jul 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Steve F. Our guest is Steve F., businessman, Christian Recovery leader, and long-recovered member of the Alcoholics Anonymous Fellowship. Steve has a lovely wife Sue and two grown children. Steve and Sue live in Winter Park, Florida. And my son Ken and I have known both Steve and Sue for a long time. Our experience with them has been heightened by appearances as speaker at the Life Enrichment Retreats founded by A.A. pioneer Clarence H. Snyder; our mutual friendship with Clarence’s wife Grace (“Amazing Grace”) Snyder; our work on the book about Clarence and her, That Amazing Grace; Steve’s support as a benefactor for large chunks of our work; and my work with Steve and two other sponsees of Clarence H. Snyder on the Our A.A. Legacy to the Faith Community guidebook--which has now attracted 20,000 readers. Steve will tell us a little about his life, education, business, family, faith, drinking period, work as musician, and hands-on service to newcomers in Alcoholics Anonymous. He will also cover his experience as one of Clarence Snyder’s many sponsees, the unusual accomplishments of Clarence, and the spiritual retreats Clarence founded. He’ll tell us about the robust continuation of these retreats in many parts of the United States and abroad, and his leadership as the Chief Shepherd of these events. In particular, I know he will tell us of the purpose, writing, and utility for AAs and their families of 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., and published by Came to Believe Publications, 2211 Lee Road, Suite 100, Winter Park, FL 32789. And about their website www.cametobelieve.org   00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoChristian Recovery Leaders,Steve F of Winter Park FL,Clarence Snyder of Alcoholics Anonyous,Twelve Step Spiritual Retreats,Came to BelieveOur guest is Steve F., businessman, Christian Recovery leader, and long-recovered member of the Alcoholics Anonymous Fellowship. Steve has a lovely wife Sue anhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/17/dick-b-shares-about-the-christian-recovery-radio-showReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/17/dick-b-shares-about-the-christian-recovery-radio-show/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/17/dick-b-shares-about-the-christian-recovery-radio-showTue, 17 Jul 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B shares about the Christian Recovery Radio show We have now completed 22 of the Dick B. interviews of Christian Recovery Leaders on our new "Christian Recovery Radio with Dick B." show. There are many many more to come. But I believe it’s time to thank those gracious enough to allow themselves to be interviewed as the Christian Recovery leaders they are. Also to comment on the hoped for results of these interviews. We want listeners to know the freedom that the speakers enjoy in telling whatever they like about their own background and recovery stories. For they tell of  their deliverance from alcoholism and/or addiction, and their particular situation. They show the  kind of love and service they are rendering to those who still suffer. They illustrate the role that God, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Bible have played in healing for centuries, that they have played in the Christian Recovery movement, that they have played in every phase of Alcoholics Anonymous history from the successes of the first three AAs until today, and that they can play in the present-day recovery scene for those who really want God’s help in overcoming the ravages of alcoholism and addiction and are willing to do whatever it takes to get that help. Today, we wanted to underscore the long-range objective of these interviews. We want to assure you that there are many more interviews to come. We'd like you to contact us and the speakers for additional information. And we also will review with you the names of those who have already contributed. Please pass along the news, help us enhance the learning, and join us in serving and glorifying God. 00:27:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoThe Dick B Interviews,Alcoholics Anonymous history,Christian Recovery leaders,The role of God in recovery,Christian Recovery techniquesWe have now completed 22 of the Dick B. interviews of Christian Recovery Leaders on our new "Christian Recovery Radio with Dick B." show. There are many many mhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/16/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-jean-lacourReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/16/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-jean-lacour/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/16/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-jean-lacourMon, 16 Jul 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Jean LaCour Our guest is Jean LaCour, Ph.D., CPP, of Daytona Beach, Florida. Jean is a Christian Recovery leader and Advisor of International Christian Recovery Coalition. She is a recovery professional, devoted Christian, and volunteer with many hats. They are: President and Cofounder of NET Training Institute, Inc. (http://netinstitute.org/index.htm). President of the International Substance Abuse and Addiction Coalition (ISAAC). Member of “Partners for Recovery,” a steering committee for the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Former Faith Coordinator for Florida’s Access to Recovery (ATR) program. Ken and I have known and worked in the recovery arena with Jean and her husband Charles for about 20 years. She was active with us in the founding of ISAAC in Florida. In fact, she introduced us to some wonderful Christian recovery leaders in Florida. One was Bishop Frank Costantino, President of Bridges of America and a leader in the prison ministry field. Another was Rev. Mickey Evans of Dunklin Memorial Church in Okeechobee where we visited and were speakers several times, toured his Christian, 12-Step-oriented facility, and saw his work program for residents and for visiting family members. Jean will tell us details about the NET Training Institute where she and her husband have developed courses dealing with and instructing in faith-based addiction counseling; training and curriculum design, international addiction and prevention training, and  pastoral leadership development. And she received excellent training in all these fields as part of her educational work. Equally significant have been her wide travels to other countries on behalf of and with leaders of ISAAC. Recently she has been honored to work with a United Nations group addressing addiction problems around the world. Go, Jean!   00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoDr Jean LaCour of Florida,Christian Recovery Leaders,NET Training Institute,ISAAC,United NationsOur guest is Jean LaCour, Ph.D., CPP, of Daytona Beach, Florida. Jean is a Christian Recovery leader and Advisor of International Christian Recovery Coalition.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/14/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-jim-gaffneyReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/14/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-jim-gaffney/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/14/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-jim-gaffneySat, 14 Jul 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Jim Gaffney Our guest is Jim Gaffney, former Recovery Pastor at Mariners Church, Irvine, California. Jim is a pharmacist with long experience in addiction recovery work. Jim helped set up “A Nationwide Recovery Conference with Dick B.” at Mariners Church Community Center in May 2009. Then helped us form the International Christian Recovery Coalition in July 2009. The Coalition owes Jim a big debt.  I met Jim 20 years ago. Four Southern California churches were training church folks wanting to serve in Christian recovery.They held the “Shepherding the Shepherds" Conference. I met two of the pastors. One was Rev. John Baker of Saddleback Church shortly before he founded Celebrate Recovery. The second was Rev. Jim Gaffney, Recovery Pastor at Mariners Church. John Baker asked me to speak at Saddleback Church on the biblical roots of A.A. and also at Mariners Church, where I met Jim. I observed his recovery program, and attended one of  his recovery groups. Jim was thoroughly supportive of 12 Step recovery programs for Christians. His Senior Pastor freely allowed recovered alcoholics to give  testimonies in the church itself.   20 years later, I asked Jim Gaffney if we could hold our first nationwide conference for Christian recovery leaders at Mariners Church. And he set it  up. He also told us of Christian leaders--one at The Crossing Church; and another at New Life Spirit Recovery treatment and counselor training center (where Dr. Robert Tucker soon provided a free Coalition office). A third was at Capo Calvary. Jim was thoroughly conversant with Christian and 12-Step recovery aspects and also knew other Orange County Christian recovery leaders, who soon became the. nucleus of our own work with leaders in Orange County.   00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoRev Jim Gaffney,Christian Recovery Leaders,AA History and Roots,Christians and alcoholism cure,12 Step programsOur guest is Jim Gaffney, former Recovery Pastor at Mariners Church, Irvine, California. Jim is a pharmacist with long experience in addiction recovery work. Jhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/12/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-randy-moraitisReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/12/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-randy-moraitis/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/12/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-randy-moraitisThu, 12 Jul 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Randy Moraitis Our guest is Randy Moraitis, Executive Pastor of Ministry at The Crossing Church in Costa Mesa, CA. Our attention to this dynamic young man was called by Rev. Jim Gaffney, former Recovery Pastor at Mariners Church in Irvine, California. During our conference there, Jim said: “Dick, I strongly recommend that, while here, you go to the Lifelines Meeting at The Crossing Church on Friday and see a real lively recovery program led by Randy Moraitis.” And my son Ken, some others, and I did just that. And the place rocked with enthusiasm, young people, a “chip meeting,” and a great speaker—after which it split up into small groups. It was a sight not to be forgotten; and later I was privileged to speak at two of the Lifelines meetings and meet the audience. The Friday night Lifelines meeting is a place for those on the journey to recovery to meet and grow in Christ. Every Friday, top recovery experts, pastors, therapists, authors, and psychologists talk on all aspects of addiction and recovery, and teach the tools needed for success.  The main Lifelines meeting is from 7-8 PM in the Loft at The Crossing. Those who attend include Christians, those who may have questions or even doubts about faith, and those who know nothing about God, the Bible, church, or Christianity. The Crossing is all about helping people say YES to God. Lifelines Recovery Support Groups meet after the large meeting, from 8-9 PM, and deal with 12 Step Life Recovery, friends and family of alcoholics/addicts, re-entry, and the roots of addiction. Randy will tell us a little about himself, his family and work, the broad scope of service at The Crossing, and the numerous opportunities to serve and get connected. If there is time, he'll tell us more about the church itself, its 20-plus year history, its plans for growth, and its forthcoming Global Leadership Summit. And about the Christian Recovery Movement. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoChristian Recovery,The Crossing Church,Pastor Randy Moraitis,Alcoholism and Addiction,Recovery PastorsOur guest is Randy Moraitis, Executive Pastor of Ministry at The Crossing Church in Costa Mesa, CA. Our attention to this dynamic young man was called by Rev.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/06/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-roger-mReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/06/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-roger-m/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/06/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-roger-mFri, 06 Jul 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Roger M Our guest today is Roger M. of Huntington Beach, California. Roger is a member of the Speakers Bureau of our International Christian Recovery Coalition. He is a Christian Recovery leader who has attended just about every conference and meeting that Ken and I have conducted over the past three years. And the bottom line is that he has made it a task to absorb as much information as possible about the Christian origins, history, founding, original “Christian fellowship” program, and successes of early Alcoholics Anonymous in Akron, Ohio. More important, he passes this information along to others as widely as possible--particularly in Orange County and elsewhere in Southern California. Roger is an enthusiastic, recovered, Christian alcoholic who is widely sought after at Alcoholics Anonymous and other recovery meetings. He is a "graduate" of Teen Challenge and is still active that organization. In particular, he has become a leader at His Place Church in Westminster, California, where there is a fast-growing A.A. meeting each Friday at the church's new location. (The Church just moved from Huntington Beach and merged with another, larger church in Westminster.) For those who wish to know how the A.A. meeting is conducted, it is important to know that the pastor--himself a recovered alcoholic/addict--kicks it off by announcing that the meeting has two texts--the Holy Bible and the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous. Members freely discuss their faith and recovery with God’s help. Roger will tell us a bit about himself, his work as a salesman, and his drinking and drug experiences. About his activities in A.A. And about his service to the growing Christian Recovery Movement. And this includes Roger's invaluable service to us at His Place Church which has hosted a number of our International Christian Recovery Coalition conferences. Welcome to Roger M.   00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoChristian Recovery Meetings,AA and the Bible,AA and Jesus Christ,Christian Recovery Leaders,12-Step programs and GodOur guest today is Roger M. of Huntington Beach, California. Roger is a member of the Speakers Bureau of our International Christian Recovery Coalition. He ishttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/05/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-dominic-dReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/05/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-dominic-d/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/05/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-dominic-dThu, 05 Jul 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Dominic D Dominic D., a Christian Recovery leader at New Hope Ministries of Cornerstone Fellowship--Livermore Campus in California, is our guest today.  He is a long-recovered member of the Alcoholics Anonymous Fellowship and is involved with two Christian recovery groups at Cornerstone. The first is Turning Point, overseen by Greg Pope. Th    e second is the Good Book/Big Book Recovery Workshop. And my son Ken and I have given public presentations three times at Cornerstone Fellowship hosted by the Turning Point Group.  Dominic is a hands-on Christian 12th stepper who helps alcoholics and addicts, and does so in the backdrop of the Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book, the 12 Steps, the Bible, and the old-school biblical origins of the original Akron A.A. "Christian fellowship." New Hope Ministries, under the direction of Diane Linse, utilizes classes, events,  resources, and groups to  fulfill its mission of helping others to recognize and realize God's  plan for individuals. It has a 12-Step Workshop for Women which addresses addiction and compulsion as both a physical and spiritual illness. It does so with the help of Scripture, utilizing a biblical base in the 12-Step recovery process. There is a Co-Dependency Support Group, Counter Point  for parents, the Good Book/Big Book Recovery Workshop, Transformed for men struggling with sexual addiction, Turning  Point which emphasizes growth in recovery, plus other Care Groups. Dominic attended the very first International Christian Recovery Coalition event in Irvine, California, in May 2009; arranged to have Ken and me flown to Livermore to address Cornerstone people, has emphasized our A.A. history and biblical origins books, and helped us broaden the Coalition outreach. And he will tell us about it all. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoLivermore California,Christian Recovery Leaders,Cornerstone Fellowship Livermore,The Bible and AA,12 Steps of AADominic D., a Christian Recovery leader at New Hope Ministries of Cornerstone Fellowship--Livermore Campus in California, is our guest today.  He is a long-rehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/03/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-david-pReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/03/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-david-p/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/03/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-david-pTue, 03 Jul 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader David P David P. of San Diego is our guest. He's a businessman; long-recovered AA; overseer of Rock Recovery Ministry, and a hands-on worker with alcoholics, addicts, and others in the vibrant Rock Church arena in San Diego, California.  Thousands pour into the church each Sunday. It is the largest church in San Diego County. It has a noted senior pastor. Many of its members are involved in the recovery community. And the church certainly reaches out to help alcoholics, addicts, and other suffering souls in many ways. In fact, David's work closely approximates the daily recovery events we advocate for Christian recovery. David is a fast-moving catalyst in all these endeavors. He focuses on residential recovery facilities, treatment, the needs of the newcomer, and involvement in a broad community outreach through the church and 12 Step groups.This includes the Bible, early A.A.’s Christian roots, plus a welcome view of the importance of both “anonymous” fellowships like Alcoholics Anonymous and Christian Recovery fellowships in the life of a church like the Rock Church. David will tell us about: His family, education, business, and drink-drug encounters. His A.A. involvement. The Rock Church itself and his role. Rock Recovery Ministry as an outreach of Rock Church to those who still sufferering with addictions, and includes: its Web site, Orientation for newcomers,12-Step Bible study, open meeting, The Most Excellent Way, Bonfire, Quiet Time and texting, Saturday A.A., the Rock Church. Sober living and treatment facilities--Christian and A.A. aspects. His support of our work and nternational Christian Recovery Coalition-- free distribution of Dick B.’s title, The Good Book and the Big Book: A.A.'s Roots in the Bible, conference travel support, interviews, mention of Dick B. His future plans. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA,Rock Church San Diego,Sober Living,Christian treatment,12 StepsDavid P. of San Diego is our guest. He's a businessman; long-recovered AA; overseer of Rock Recovery Ministry, and a hands-on worker with alcoholics, addicts,http://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/02/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-mark-galligan-2Religionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/02/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-mark-galligan-2/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/07/02/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-mark-galligan-2Mon, 02 Jul 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Mark Galligan 2 Mark Galligan, our guest from Ontario, Canada, returns today for a second interview. We interviewed him last week, and, as a Christian Recovery Leader, Mark has still more to tell us this time. Mark is a long-recovered Christian AA "Akronite." And we welcome him again to Christian Recovery Radio. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoMark Galligan,AA Akronite in Canada,Christian Recovery Leader,A A History,Christians in AAMark Galligan, our guest from Ontario, Canada, returns today for a second interview. We interviewed him last week, and, as a Christian Recovery Leader, Mark hahttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/29/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-bill-boylesReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/29/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-bill-boyles/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/29/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-bill-boylesFri, 29 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Bill Boyles Our guest, Bill Boyles, is a recovered Christian Recovery leader I have known for many years. I met Bill while doing a series of A.A. Heritage Seminars at the Wilson House (birthplace of A.A. cofounder Bill W.) in East Dorset, Vermont. Bill attended twice. And it was clear he was a devoted Christian who saw the importance of early A.A.’s biblical roots in recovery from alcoholism and drugs today. Since we first met, I have seen Bill leave an important executive position at a Delaware utility, align himself with Christian leaders in recovery, and help other alcoholics and addicts get well by turning to God. Bill runs a nonprofit ministry that provides Christian treatment for alcoholics and addicts. He helped fund my Second Nationwide Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference in Delaware. He has become what he calls himself—the “Book Man.” He has purchased hundreds and hundreds of my A.A. history books, circulated them among his church friends, and passed them out free to newcomers in Delaware. Recently, he came from Delaware to attend and speak at our International Christian Recovery Conference at Golden Hills Community Church in Brentwood, California. I know we'll hear of’ the Christian recovery happenings at Won Way Out in Camden Wyoming, Delaware. And Bill will  tell us a little about himself, family, church, bouts with alcohol and drugs, actions in 12 Step groups, and his treatment programs today. Bill is Executive Director of Won Way Out Ministries, Inc., 8345 Westville Road, Camden Wyoming, Delaware--a private company established in 2005 and incorporated as a Miscellaneous Denomination Church. And now Bill will tell us the details of his Christian recovery ministry, mission, vision, and plans.  00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoBill Boyles of Delaware,Won Way Out,Christian Recovery leaders,Alcoholics Anonymous history,Alcoholism recoveryOur guest, Bill Boyles, is a recovered Christian Recovery leader I have known for many years. I met Bill while doing a series of A.A. Heritage Seminars at thehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/28/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-matt-pierceReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/28/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-matt-pierce/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/28/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-matt-pierceThu, 28 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Matt Pierce Our guest is Recovery Pastor Matt Pierce of Golden Hills Community Church in Brentwood, California. Matt is truly a Christian Recovery leader. His church has twice sponsored important International Christian Recovery Coalition workshop conferences. It is a member of the Agape Circle which supports the work my son Ken and I do around the world. And it is a sponsor of the Christian Recovery Radio Web site. Golden Hills conducts regular Christian Recovery meetings with the help of Matt's group leader, David Sadler. It has undertaken establishment of a residential recovery center. It supports the work of a non-profit organization establishing a fellowship hall. And, after a workshop at the church with recovery leaders from around Northern California, it resolved to host a "Stick with the Winners" group where 12 Step people, church members, and suffering alcoholics and addicts will be invited to participate in regular meetings that cover the Christian origins of the recovery movement founded by AAs in Akron, the principles and practices of the early Akron A.A. "Christian fellowship," and the applicablity of "old-school" A.A. today. Matt will tell us a little about himself and his family, his religious background, education, drinking and drug abuse experiences, and lots about what Golden Hills is doing to further Christian Recovery today. Matt will tell us about his position at Golden Hills, its views on A.A., the Twelve Steps, and other recovery activities there, the mission he and Golden Hills have in the recovery arena, and their recovery outreach in the community with other churches and community groups, the 12 Step Community, and those in prisons, in rehabs, in treatment programs, or on the streets. He'll also cover some of Golden Hills' future plans. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA history,Matt Pierce,Christian Recovery,Brentwood Golden Hills Community Church,alcoholism and addictionOur guest is Recovery Pastor Matt Pierce of Golden Hills Community Church in Brentwood, California. Matt is truly a Christian Recovery leader. His church has thttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/27/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-mark-galliganReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/27/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-mark-galligan/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/27/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-mark-galliganWed, 27 Jun 2012 20:30:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Mark Galligan Mark Galligan is a long-recovered alcoholic, very active in A.A. He is a businessman. He lives in Canada. He is a Christian Recovery Leader and a  participant in International Christian Recovery Coalition since its inception  in July of 2009. Mark attended our international conference in May of 2009 at Mariners Church Community Center in Irvine, California. He was one of the speakers and watched over our substantial exhibit table in company with a professor of medicine from South Carolina. He was attracted to our original printers manuscript of DR. BOB and the Good Oltimers which is an A.A. General Service Conference-approved book we acquired from its owner Dennis Cassidy of Connecticut. This manuscript is particular importance because of the written changes and the full names of the early AAs it describes and quotes. It is filled with material on early A.A. Bible study, old fashioned prayer meetings, Quiet Times, surrenders to Jesus Christ, and the original A.A. Christian fellowship founded in Akron in 1935. Mark began making plans to obtain, make copies of, and digitalize it so that it could be seen all over the world. He also endeavored to acquire this and a host of other A.A. historical materials and support our project at Dr. Bob Core Library in Dr. Bob's boyhood village of St. Johnsbury, Vermont. Mark will tell us a little about himself, his family, his drinking days, his activity in A.A., and his large group of fellowship members who call themselves the "Akronites." This group is very oriented to community outreach, passing out A.A. Conference-approved Co-Founders  Pamphlet  P-53, helping newcomers get well, and making it possible for them to become children of God by new birth. Mark brings many new AAs to Akron--where A.A. was founded and had its Christian Fellowship, and we are eager to hear from this hands-on man of A.A. love and service.   00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoMark Galligan of Canada,Alcoholics Anonymous History,Christians,AA cofounder Dr Bob,AA AkronitesMark Galligan is a long-recovered alcoholic, very active in A.A. He is a businessman. He lives in Canada. He is a Christian Recovery Leader and a  participanthttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/26/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-bonnie-burkeReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/26/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-bonnie-burke/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/26/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-bonnie-burkeTue, 26 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Bonnie Burke Bonnie Burke is Wilson House President and Managing Director. Her deceased former husband, Ozzie Lepper, poured his money, his life, and his dreams into the restoration of Wilson House in East Dorset, Vermont. That's  the birthplace of Bill W. and his final resting place in a little nearby cemetery. Guesst visit this New England inn where meals are served family style after prayer and where morning Quiet Time is observed as it was in early A.A. There are regular A.A. meetings. Fine speakers conduct weekend seminars on the spiritual aspects of A.A. and its history. For 8 years, I was honored to be one of the invited speakers. Wilson House lies aside East Dorset Congregational church where Bill Wilson, his sister, his parents, and his maternal and paternal grandparents were regulars; and where Bill acquired a large chunk of his Christian upbringing. Ozzie and Bonnie refurbished the Griffith House located on the other side of the little church. Bill Wilson was raised there by his grandparents Fayette and Ella Griffith. This building has been converted into a beautiful A.A. library containing thousands of archival treasures and books relating to the Christian roots of early A.A. Ozzie lived to see his dream fulfilled. Bonnie carries on  the Wilson House goal, She manages the properties, and blesses the visitors. Not long ago, Bonnie remarried and became the wife of her present husband, becoming Bonnie Burke as I know her today. As time permits, Bonnie will tell us about her  family and Christain faith, the development, mission, and activities of Wilson House and the role of the Griffith House and Library next door. She'll explain the funding needs and importance of receiving  historical items, in-kind donations, and volunteers. 00:28:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoWilson House in Vermont,AA History,Bill W Christian upbringing,Griffith House Library,Bonnie Burke of Wilson HouseBonnie Burke is Wilson House President and Managing Director. Her deceased former husband, Ozzie Lepper, poured his money, his life, and his dreams into the rehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/22/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-dale-marshReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/22/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-dale-marsh/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/22/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-dale-marshFri, 22 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Dale Marsh Dale Marsh is a former Oroville, California businessman. He is married, has two children, and used to run a Tile business that sported facades on some Sacramento, California landmarks. But Dale and his family are devoted Christians. Dale, on the other hand, had his rough days with alcoholism. But he prevailed over the malady a good many years ago. He dived into Alcoholics Anonymous. And he also heavily aligned himself with his Christian church. But there was more to it than that.   Dale believed he had a calling to become a pastoral counselor. And Dale put the same energy into that project as he had done with his drinking and his church. He closed his business. He persuaded his pastor to let him begin working with drunks and bringing them to God through Jesus Christ, but in the backdrop of the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and of the Fellowship itself. And he has sponsored many an AA in Christian recovery in A.A.   Dale petitioned his pastor to let him become a recovery pastor—a position yet to be established. In the Christian recovery fellowship field, he made about the best choices a novice zealot could make. He traveled to Southern California and met with two young, married, Christian recovery leaders at two very large and dynamic churches.   The first church was Rock Church in San Diego. David Powers, a Christian businessman, heads its Rock Recovery Ministry program. David has fashioned a Christian recovery program that includes orientation of each newcomer to recovery, Bible study, A.A. meetings, church attendance, probable residential Christian living quarters, a recovery bonfire gathering each week, daily Christian fellowship, and daily texting among the group of meditation thoughts and reflections based on the early A.A. devotional—the Upper Room. Dick B. was next. Then Randy Moraitis of The Crossing Church in Costa Mesa.   00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA History,Christian Recovery,Dale Marsh,Alcoholics Anonymous and the Bible,Jesus Christ and AADale Marsh is a former Oroville, California businessman. He is married, has two children, and used to run a Tile business that sported facades on some Sacramenhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/20/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-karen-plavanReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/20/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-karen-plavan/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/20/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-karen-plavanWed, 20 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Karen Plavan Our guest is Karen A. Plavan, Ph.D., of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She is a Christian Recovery Leader and Interim Chairperson of our International Christian Recovery Coalition. In addition, she holds these posts: Director, The Oasis Recovery Center of Western Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh, PA: http://oasisrecoverycenter.org; Assistant Professor, Counselor Education—Chemical Dependency, The Pennsylvania State University; and Adjunct Professor, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. She has just assumed a new post involving CLEAR—an outreach program she will explain briefly today. Karen is also Curator of our Shoemaker Room Collection at Calvary Episcopal Church in Pittsburgh. Karen is an experienced fireball when it comes to organizing, coordinating, and leading pastoral, governmental, Christian, and chemical dependency conferences and councils. I first met her in the offices of the Pittsburgh Leadership Foundation several years ago. I could see that she had an intense interest in and knowledge of the biblical roots of Alcoholics Anonymous and the particular role played by Rev. Samuel M. Shoemaker, Jr., Rector of Calvary Episcopal Church in Pittsburgh. In the days since the founding of A.A., Shoemaker had become less and less known in the recovery arena despite his towering books, sermons, articles, pamphlets, and his former connection as the chief American lieutenant of the Oxford Group when it held offices in his Calvary House at Calvary Church in New York. Shoemaker had an immense influence on A.A. co-founder Bill W. and the elements of his Big Book and Twelve Steps. In fact, Bill W. had once asked Shoemaker to write the Twelve Steps. (Sam declined.) Once we became acquainted, Karen helped me immensely in my research of Shoemaker’s role in Pennsylvania, in the Pittsburgh Experiment, with the so-called “golf club crowd,” with Calvary Church, and with prayer groups. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoKaren Plavan PhD,Christian Recovery Leaders,AA History,Rev Sam Shoemaker and AA,International Christian Recovery CoalitionOur guest is Karen A. Plavan, Ph.D., of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She is a Christian Recovery Leader and Interim Chairperson of our International Christian Rechttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/19/interview-james-moody-manna-house-ministries-jamestown-tnReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/19/interview-james-moody-manna-house-ministries-jamestown-tn/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/19/interview-james-moody-manna-house-ministries-jamestown-tnTue, 19 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTInterview: James Moody, Manna House Ministries, Jamestown TN Our guest is James Moody, head of Manna House Ministries in Jamestown, Tennessee. And Manna House has such an intense, Christian, recovery-oriented program that the best place to get full information is on its top notch website--http://mannahouseministries.com. We urge you to go there for an excellent display Christian recovery practices, resources, ministries, and solutions.. James will tell  us about their mission, vision, focus on salvation, return of Jesus Christ, church, baptism, and communion. Plus important services of Manna House to families, local churches, pastors, and judicial systems. Manna House Ministries bridges the gap between addiction and recovery. It focuses on resources and support groups. It is an outreach resource meant for those suffering in the bondage of addiction, with the vision of bringing the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ to those suffering from this bondage. Manna House leaders attended the organizational meeting of International Christian Recovery Coalition at Mariners Church in Irvine, California three years ago; immediately became a participant; and was the first participant to establish a Christian Recovery Resource Center. The House conducts Serenity Fellowship Meetings six nights a week. It takes a Christ-centered 12 Step recovery approach to overcoming addiction with step studies, Bible studies, and discussion meetings. It holds Daily Bread Recovery Classes providing 12 Step guidance, Bible study, discussions, and meals. It provides a safe house for those waiting to be placed or transitioning back into the community. Under James Moody's leadership it refers the suffering to crisis centered programs, long-term faith based programs, recovery meetings. 12 Step meetings, nationwide facilities, and outpatient centers. Its website is a compendium resource for first-rate Christian recovery leaders, programs, local Christian fellowships, and counseling.  00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoManna House Ministries,James Moody,Tennesse Recovery Bridge,Jesus Christ and the Bible and the 12 Steps,Christian Recovery ResourcesOur guest is James Moody, head of Manna House Ministries in Jamestown, Tennessee. And Manna House has such an intense, Christian, recovery-oriented program thahttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/15/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-russell-sReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/15/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-russell-s/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/15/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-russell-sFri, 15 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Russell S Russell S. is a long-recovered Christian attorney who lives and practices law in the Miami, Florida area. His office is located at 14707 South Dixie Highway, Suite 302, Miami, FL 33176. Russell is a Christian recovery leader, a participant in International Christian Recovery Coalition, and one of its very forceful and instructive speakers. He brings to many A.A. meetings his message about A.A., the Big Book, the Twelve Steps, God, Jesus Christ, and the Bible. He is also a strong proponent of the importance of early A.A.'s Christian origins, history, founding, and Akron AA Christian fellowship begun by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith in Akron in June of 1935. He first attracted our attention long distance from Miami to Maui (by phone, letter, email, and websites)--as we learnedle he had distributed to others many of Dick B.'s A.A. History and Christian recovery books. He had spoken and recorded a large number of talks on how to bring God, Jesus Christ, and the Bible into A.A. and its meetings in an effective and well-received way. And he does so widely. In addition, he traveled from Miami to Southern California for two of our Coalition Conferences--the first at The Crossing Church in Costa Mesa, and the second as a featured speaker at our workshop--personal meetings--conference at His Place Church in Westminster, California. Russell is active in and devoted to his faith, his church, his law practice, his sponsorship in A.A. of many men, his vibrant talks about A.A.'s Big Book, Twelve Step, and Fellowship relationship and reliance on God and coming to Him through His Son Jesus Christ. He will tell us a little about his family, education, church work, law practice, Twelfth-Step Work, his alcoholism, his sponsees, and his very effective speaking approaches as he addresses others. He will also give us a view of what he is doing and will be doing to further Christian recovery today.   00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoRussell S Miami Attorney,Alcoholics Anonymous,God Jesus Christ and AA,Christian recovery,alcoholism and the BibleRussell S. is a long-recovered Christian attorney who lives and practices law in the Miami, Florida area. His office is located at 14707 South Dixie Highway, Shttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/14/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-doug-nunesReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/14/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-doug-nunes/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/14/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-doug-nunesThu, 14 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery leader Doug Nunes Doug Nunes is Director of Recovery Ministries at a vibrant A.A. friendly, Recovery friendly, Bible friendly, Newcomer friendly, and Outreach friendly church in Los Gatos, California. The church is Calvary Church, 16330 Los Gatos Boulevard in Los Gatos. The occasion for his interview is that he has just recently associated his work with International Christian Recovery Coalition and is a truly active and effective Christian Recovery leader. Doug strongly supports what he labels our "dedication to keeping the history of AA alive and Christ centered." And his characterization fits well with the many Christian recovery organizations and evangelists like the YMCA, Gospel Rescue Missions, Salvation Army, Dwight L. Moody, and the Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor which spawned A.A.'s biblical beginnings. Also with the strong Christian upbringing of A.A.'s cofounders. And with the original Akron A.A. Christian Fellowship program, principles, and practices. Doug will tell us a little of his background and about his church. But he bubbles over reporting the enthusiasm building in his ministry in groups like the church's "God and Big Book AA meeting," literature like The Runner's Bible, like the Men's Small Group Recovery where men seek to grow in the Word of God through Bible teachings, and Mirror 12 Step Workshop which walks participants through the 12 Steps and uses some of the "Good Book" to bring it alive in one's heart, and like the newly organized 12 Steps "Women of Wisdom Group." Doug will give us a picture of how all this great Christian recovery work began, where it sits today, and what is planned for the future. His church, ministry, and groups are not unique because other groups are rapidly forming in California and elsewhere. But it serves as a model of strong leadership, very substantial membership support, and Bible-based Christian work. 00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,12 Step Fellowships,Christian recovery groups,Calvary Church in Los Gatos Ca,alcoholism and addictionDoug Nunes is Director of Recovery Ministries at a vibrant A.A. friendly, Recovery friendly, Bible friendly, Newcomer friendly, and Outreach friendly church inhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/13/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-edward-grinnanReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/13/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-edward-grinnan/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/13/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-edward-grinnanWed, 13 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B Interviews Christian Recovery Leader Edward Grinnan Edward Grinnan is Editor-in-Chief and Vice President of Guideposts Publications. He returned from the Alcoholics Anonymous Founders Day Celebrations where he was the keynote speaker at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens--the location of the "Seiberling" Gate Lodge where Henrietta Buckler Seiberling introduced A.A.'s cofounders Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith. And while in Akron, Edward was interviewed by Dick B. and Ken B. on ChristianRecoveryRadio.com, along with Akron's well-known charitable and religious leader, corporate executive, and banker Ronald E. Glosser--who was also Vice Chairman of Guideposts. Edward is a Christian recovery leader and recovered alcoholic who emerged from the depths of the malady to his present-day post as Editor and Author. Grinnan is a Yale Drama graduate '82 MFA. an "erstwhile playwright, and now the author of his published memoir The Promise of Hope: How True Stories of Hope and Inspiration Saved My Life and How They Can Transform Yours (Plus 9 Keys to Powerful Personal Change (Guideposts, 2012) Edward was present at A.A. Founders Day to speak, tell his story , and memorialize the relationship of Guideposts Founder Norman Vincent Peale important A.A. historical figures like Bill W., Dr. Bob, Dr. William D. Silkworth, and Rev. Samuel M. Shoemaker, Jr. (whom Bill W. called a cofounder of AA). Grinnan said Guideposts republishes Bill W.'s very first article--which appeared in Guideposts in 1947--"Is A.A. for Alcoholics Only?" And Dr. Peale wrote in his The Postive Power of Jesuu Christ facts showingt Dr. Silkworth was telling his alcoholic patients like Bill Wilson that the "Great Physician" Jesus Christ could cure them of their alcoholism. Grinnan will be talking about his tortuous climb from the bottom in alcoholism to his  present editorial career and about A.A. in his life. 00:28:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,AA Founders Day Akron,Christian Recovery,Guideposts Publications,Norman Vincent PealeEdward Grinnan is Editor-in-Chief and Vice President of Guideposts Publications. He returned from the Alcoholics Anonymous Founders Day Celebrations where he whttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/12/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-tuchy-palmieriReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/12/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-tuchy-palmieri/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/12/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-tuchy-palmieriTue, 12 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B Interviews Christian Recovery Leader Tuchy Palmieri Carl "Tuchy" Palmieri is a recovered Christian believer and leader from Connecticut. He stands out as a man dedicated to bringing back to A.A., alcoholics and addicts, as well as all who rely on God for help the important literature early A.A. members read to grow in their spiritual walk away from their malady and toward God. Tuchy is the author of many books, but his devotion includes selecting some of the top Oxford Group and Rev. Samuel M. Shoemaker books that inspired early AAs spiritually and actually fed some of their very words and language into A.A. literature and the 12 Steps of recovery, Tuchy will provide a little of his family, educational, business, religious, and alcoholism background; then tell how he became interested in publishing books; then tell how and why he reprinted and published on so many Christian oriented books relevant to Alcoholics Anonymous and its Steps. He'll tell us his future plans as well. Some reprinted books & commentary are::When Man Listens by Cecil Rose, Twice Born Men by Harold Begbie, Life Changers by Begbie, Life Began Yesterday by Stephen Foot, and Shoemaker's Children of the Second Birth, Twice-Born Ministers, and With the Holy Spirit and With Fire. Readers will find themselves thanking Tuchy Palmieri for his perception of the importance of A.A.'s real Oxford Group Connection, the special role of A.A. "Cofounder" Rev. Samuel M. Shoemaker, Jr., and the special role these played in spawning A.A.'s Eleventh Step--based on the long Christian tradition of a morning Quiet Time with God--involving the Bible, prayer, seeking God's guidance, and writing down the messages revealed by the meditator We know that Tuchy will be reproducing more of this early literature to enlighten AAs, 12-Step people, and recovery leaders of today.       00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous,Oxford Group,Rev Sam Shoemaker,Christian Recovery,AA HistoryCarl "Tuchy" Palmieri is a recovered Christian believer and leader from Connecticut. He stands out as a man dedicated to bringing back to A.A., alcoholics andhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/08/dick-b-interviews-ron-glosser-edward-grinnan-of-guidepostsReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/08/dick-b-interviews-ron-glosser-edward-grinnan-of-guideposts/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/08/dick-b-interviews-ron-glosser-edward-grinnan-of-guidepostsFri, 08 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Ron Glosser & Edward Grinnan of Guideposts My guests, Ronald D. Glosser and Edward Grinnan, are playing major roles in AA Founders Day in Akron, Ohio, for June 2012. From Akron, they'll focus on the following points: (1) Ohio's Henrietta Buckler Seiberling and her vital role in helping bring about the recovery of A.A. cofounder Dr. Bob by prayer. (2) Her perception that Bill Wilson's Akron visit in 1935 was an answer to the prayers for Dr. Bob's deliverance from alcoholism. (3) The Gate Lodge at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens where Henrietta lived with her family and introduced Dr. Bob to Bill Wilson for their six-hour talk that launched the original AA "Christian fellowship" program. (4) The restoration of the Gate Lodge and establishment of its museum and exhibits for the viewing by thousands of  Akron Founders Day visitors. (5) The special relationship of Dr. Norman Vincent Peale with A.A., Bill Wilson, Dr. Bob, and AA "cofounders" Rev. Sam Shoemaker and Dr. William Silkworth (as Bill described the two men). Ron was a major factor in the restoration of the Gate Lodge for visits by Akron visitors. He was born in Conesville, Ohio; received a BA in Business Admiistration from Ohio Wesleyan; graduated from Stoner Graduate School of Banking at Rutgers; became Vice President and Senior Trust Officer and later President of Goodyear Bank; then President and CEO of the Hersey Trust in Pennsylvania; Vice Chairman of Guideposts, Life Trustee and Past Chairman of Akron Regional Developent Board; and one of the Board of Directors of Stan Hywet Foundation. We'll cover some of Ron's other business and charitable services on our blogsite. Edward Grinnan is Editor-in-Chief and Vice-President of Guidebooks Publications. Also author of The Promise of Hope: How True Stories of Hope and Inspiration Saved My Life and How They can Transform Yours.  00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAA Founders Day Akron,AA and Norman Vincent Peale,Alcoholics Anonymous Roots,Akron AA and Seiberling Gate Lodge,Henrietta Buckler SeiberlingMy guests, Ronald D. Glosser and Edward Grinnan, are playing major roles in AA Founders Day in Akron, Ohio, for June 2012. From Akron, they'll focus on the folhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/07/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-rev-bill-wigmoreReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/07/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-rev-bill-wigmore/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/07/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-rev-bill-wigmoreThu, 07 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B Interviews Christian Recovery Leader Father Bill W. My guest is International Christian Recovery Coalition participant, Father Bill W. of Texas. Bill is currently Chairman of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas Recovery Committee. He has been a continuously sober and recovered alcoholic for 40 years. He has been involved in the treatment field for about 40 years. And he was ordained an Episcopal Priest about seven years ago. Father Bill has held executive posts in many treatment programs which included those in Arizona, Texas, and Louisiana. He then became President and CEO of Austin Recovery--a 250-bed facility--from which he retired recently. In his recovery work, Bill placed emphasis on prayer, meditation, and Quiet Time--helping those already in fellowships like Alcoholics Anonymous to find God. Father Bill W. actively participates in the International Christian Recovery Coalition Speakers Bureau  (www.ChristianRecoveryCoalition.com). He has spoken at several of our conferences. About 10 years ago, he began writing articles for the monthly publication Recovery Today. Bill has become a leader in the Christian Recovery field. And in the Recovery Ministries for the Diocese, he heads two committees--one in Houston and one in Austin. These are currently engaged in organizing their outreach--determining where they want to go, what they want to be, and what their mission statement should be. They will be teaching others about the history of A.A. and the recovery movement, about old-school A.A.'s "Christian fellowship," and about the importance of prayer, meditation, and Quiet Time among those seeking recovery from alcoholism and addiction in the 12-Step arena. 00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoChristian Recovery Movment,AA History,Prayer and Quiet Time in Recovery,Alcoholism and Addiction,Christian Recovery Leaders speakMy guest is International Christian Recovery Coalition participant, Father Bill W. of Texas. Bill is currently Chairman of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas Recovhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/05/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-ray-gReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/05/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-ray-g/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/06/05/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-ray-gTue, 05 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery Leader Ray G. This one of our interviews of our Christian Recovery Leaders. Ray G., of Newton Falls, Ohio, is our guest today. Ray was long the archivist for Dr. Bob's Home in Akron, Ohio. And was a Managing Directors of the Home. He has a huge, mobile collection of A.A. History materials and treasures. With his lovely wife Ginny, Ray takes those history treasures to A.A. meetings and conferences all over the U.S. and Canada. Ray has amassed many years of continuous sobriety, been very active in the A.A. fellowship, and has been a volunteer at Dr. Bob's Home for years and years. He and Ginny have eight childrenj. He is part of the International Christian Recovery Coalition fellowship and has been a leading spokesman for Christian Recovery efforts in the field of alcoholism and addiction. He is a strong believer that the power of God can overcome addictions. Ray and I have participated in a large number of A.A. history events together, including International A.A. Conferences, and even two A.A. History cruises. And we have served on history panels together. Ray and his wife Ginny were very close friends of the children of A.A. co-founder Dr. Robert H. Smith of Akron. As such, the two stalwarts gleaned an immense amount of A.A. historical information from Sue Smith Windows (daughter of Dr. Bob and Anne Smith) and from the cofounders' son and daughter-in-law Robert R. Smith (known as Smitty) and his wife Betty. And, in the very limited time of this broadcast, Ray will help bring and keep alive Dr. Bob's Home and Akron, Ohio as the birthplace of Alcoholics Anonymous in June of 1935.  These interviews of Christian Recovery leaders will bring to you men and women throughout the world who are participating in the International Christian Recovery Coalition and making their mark in various 12-Step and Christian recovery fellowships and A.A. historical presentations. And now, Ray   00:30:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous History,Dick B AA Historian,Guest Ray G,Christian Recovery Leaders,God Jesus Christ and Bible in recovery todayThis one of our interviews of our Christian Recovery Leaders. Ray G., of Newton Falls, Ohio, is our guest today. Ray was long the archivist for Dr. Bob's Homehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/05/29/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-michael-liimattaReligionhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/05/29/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-michael-liimatta/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/christian-recovery-radio-with-dickb/2012/05/29/dick-b-interviews-christian-recovery-leader-michael-liimattaTue, 29 May 2012 20:00:00 GMTDick B interviews Christian Recovery Leader Michael Liimatta This is the first interview of one of our many Christian Recovery Leaders. Rev. Michael Liimatta of Kansas City, Missouri is our guest today. Michael is a leader in the International Christian Recovery Coalition. He has been a leading spokesman for Christian Recovery efforts in the field of alcoholism and addiction. He is a strong believer in the efficacy of the power of God to overcome addictions, and has written many articles on how to coordinate 12 Step programs with Christian recovery entities. Michael has worked for many years in the field of alcoholism and addiction treatment. He served for many years as Educational Director of Association of Gospel Rescue Missions and as head of the addiction recovery bridge group, Alcoholics Victorious. Today he is education director of City Vision College in Kansas City, helpling the inner city outreach of Footprints, Inc., assisting Alcoholics Victorious in its transition to a new home at Christians in Recovery in Florida, and as a consultant in the field of establishing and growing Christian recovery programs. This series of interviews of Christian Recovery leaders will bring to you men and women throughout the world who are participating in the International Christian Recovery Coalition and making their mark in various Christian recovery fellowships and treatment programs. And now my good friend Michael Liimatta wil tell you precisely his own experience, programs, and plans in the Christian recovery arena.   00:29:00Christian Recovery Radio with DickBnoAlcoholics Anonymous History,Dick B AA Historian,Guest Rev Michael Liimatta,Christian Recovery Leaders,God Jesus Christ and Bible in recovery todayThis is the first interview of one of our many Christian Recovery Leaders. Rev. Michael Liimatta of Kansas City, Missouri is our guest today. Michael is a lea