Oliver J. Morgan

Pathways to Long-Term Recovery from Alcohol Dependence

Abstract This descriptive qualitative pilot study explored like attributes of successful recovery among 13 alcoholics with six or more years of continuous sobriety. Seven subjects were current members of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Six subjects were spontaneous remitters (SA) chosen through convenience sampling techniques; these persons achieved and maintain stable, long-term recovery without the assistance of a support group. Open-ended questions about attributes that contribute to successful recovery were posed to these participants. Common attributes and themes were identified as these recovering alcoholics: utilized the help of supportive people, accepted help from God or a Higher Power, had a strong desire to get well, strove to be honest with self and built self confidence, and remembered the negative consequences of their past alcohol abuse. Implications for treatment and further research are suggested. The spiritual attributes listed by both groups of participants as important for successful recovery are noted.

Alcohol Problems, Alcoholism and Spirituality

Abstract This paper presents a brief overview of current interest in the relationship of alcohol and other drug problems, addiction and religiousness/spirituality. Some basic issues involved in this area of assessment and scientific investigation are addressed. Brief reviews of several clinical and research instruments that may prove useful in addiction studies are presented. Providing an overview of measurement issues and potential scales for use in research related to addiction and spirituality is seen as beneficial to interested researchers and treatment providers.

Music for the Dance: Some Meanings of Solitude

Solitude is explored as a helpful environment for spiritual and psychological health. A short description of the experience of solitude is followed by an examination of its place within the dynamic make-up of the person. Some consideration of how one “chooses” to enter into solitude is given. Some further questions for study are provided.

Elements in a Spirituality of Pastoral Care

Invites readers into a “conversation” about spirituality by examining personal experiences of prayer. Explores the impact of spiritual experience on pastoral identity and vision by way of personal metaphores of healing and salvation. Sees “grateful response” to Gods healing as leading to a desire to serve and to important qualities of pastoral presence and sensitivity. Explores some “christological” dimensions of a spirituality for pastoral care and offers an example of practical application.

Pastoral counseling and petitionary prayer.

Petitionary prayer is a valid and often-used form of prayer among religious people. Not infrequently, pastoral counselors find themselves praying for clients. This article explores the pastoral counselors use of petitionary prayer, experientially and theologically, and attempts to locate its meaning within the healing enterprise.Petitionary prayer is a valid and often-used form of prayer among religious people. Not infrequently, pastoral counselors find themselves praying for clients. This article explores the pastoral counselors use of petitionary prayer, experientially and theologically, and attempts to locate its meaning within the healing enterprise.