THE RELIGIOUS VIEW ON A.A.

1 VTHE RELIGIOUS view ON of practically every denomination havegiven their Dowling, ,*of the Queen s Work staff, says, Alcoholics Anonymous is natural; it is natural at thepoint where nature comes closest to the supernatural,namely in humiliations and in consequent humility. Thereis something spiritual about an art museum or a sym-phony, and the Catholic Church approves of our use ofthem. There is something spiritual about too, andCatholic participation in it almost invariably results inpoor Catholics becoming better Catholics.

2 The Episcopal magazine, The Living Church, observes editorially: The basis of the technique of AlcoholicsAnonymous is the truly Christian principle that a man can-not help himself except by helping others. The is described by the members themselves as self- insurance. This self-insurance has resulted in the restorationof physical, mental and spiritual health and self-respectto hundreds of men and women who would be hope -lessly down and out without its unique but effectivetherapy.

3 Speaking at a dinner given by John D. Rockefeller introduce Alcoholics Anonymous to some of his friends,Dr. Harry Emerson Fosdick remarked: I think that psychologically speaking there is a pointof advantage in the approach that is being made in this movement that cannot be duplicated. I suspect that ifit is wisely handled and it seems to be in wise andprudent hands there are doors of opportunity ahead ofthis project that may surpass our capacities to imagine.

4 572*Father Ed, an early and wonderful friend of , died in the spring of 11/20/13 3:41 PM Page 572