7:30 p.m., Bethell Hall
Each year, on Jan. 31, The Episcopal Church gives thanks for Sam Shoemaker’s life, work, and witness. But it is not alone—all in recovery owe him a debt of enduring gratitude.
Why do we celebrate and give thanks for Sam Shoemaker?
- Referred to often as the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
- Played a key role in AA’s formation by nurturing AA in its infancy in his church while Rector of Calvary Episcopal Church, New York City, NY (1927-51).
- Praised by Bill Wilson, AA’s New York founder, as the source and inspiration for most of the Steps and for his crucial role in shaping AA’s self-identity through them.
- A confidante, counselor and spiritual adviser to early AA’ers like Bill Wilson, Ebby Thatcher, and Rowland Hazard.