Nontraditional remains the rule, with Panthers jerseys more common than suits, sing-alongs more popular than hymns. A gregarious redhead with a contagious smile, Ronda offers a hug to everyone she sees, whether she's met them before or not. Today, about 75 percent of church members are active in Twelve Step programs for problems including substance abuse, eating disorders, gambling and sexual addictions. But everyone is recovering from something, say the Shocks, whether it's a broken heart or long-held fears. And they lead their flock one day at a time.
People develop addictions for reasons that vary as much as individuals themselves.
It was God doing for me what I couldn't do for myself. Now sober, the Ohio native works with The Recovery Church's children's worship and greeters committee. The National Institute for Healthcare Research reports that a 1996 study found the development of spiritual roots was a key to preventing alcoholics' relapse. Estimates vary, but experts say between 3.5 million and 15 million Americans belong to Twelve Step groups. But not everyone believes spirituality is key to beating addiction.