If the focus were shifted from codependence as a diagnostic category to dependence as an effort toward life, the possibilities for healing could be more full. This article seeks to delineate the multiplicity of ways in which clergy foster codependency within the context of their congregations and the wider community in which they serve. Personal codependent proclivities are both encouraged and sanctioned by the larger cultural context in which the clergy serve. These may be used by addicted persons and codependent persons to help them find a holy posture for working the steps. Present actions are always influenced by actions of the past and their emotional loading.
Material actions can mirror what is happening on a spiritual level as well.
The description of bankruptcy in business can be a metaphor for the pain, shame and humiliation of spiritual bankruptcy. This article presents not only a description of the problem, but hopefully a contribution to the solution as well. You can also obtain sample copies of any Haworth Press titles from the address above.