From Philly to Jerusalem: Yisrael C.'s Journey of Faith and Recovery
Episode Overview
Yisrael C.'s journey from Irish Catholicism to Orthodox Judaism and sobriety The pivotal role of 12-Step programs in Yisrael's spiritual transformation Exploring the intersection of spirituality, religion, and recovery Finding solace, joy, and meaning in diverse spiritual paths The transformative power of faith and community in navigating life's challenges
His craving for alcohol was the equivalent on a low level of the spiritual thirst of our being for wholeness, expressed in medieval language, the union with God.
Ever wondered how a journey through different faiths can shape one's path to recovery? In this episode, Father Bill W. sits down with Yisrael C., a man whose life story is as diverse as it is inspiring. Yisrael's tale begins in Philadelphia, where he grew up as a Catholic kid, and takes us all the way to Jerusalem, where he now lives as an Orthodox Jew and works as a stand-up comedian.
But that's not all—he also works at the Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem, balancing the weight of history with the lightness of comedy. With over 40 years in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Yisrael shares how his spiritual and religious evolution has been deeply intertwined with his recovery journey. His story is a fascinating blend of tragedy and comedy, offering a unique perspective on what it means to find sobriety and joy in life.
The conversation dives into the age-old question: Are you spiritual or religious? Yisrael's insights provide a deeper understanding of how these concepts play a crucial role in addiction recovery. Father Bill and Yisrael's dialogue is more than just an interview; it's an exploration of the diverse paths to spiritual fulfillment and recovery. Whether you're part of a 12-Step fellowship, struggling with addiction, or simply curious about the spiritual dimensions of recovery, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.
Tune in to discover how faith, community, and a good sense of humor can be powerful tools in overcoming life's challenges.