The creation of the Substance Addiction Ministry (SAM) was a direct response to the 1992 pastoral letter of the U.S. Bishops titled “Communities of Hope: Parishes and Substance Abuse.” This new ministry is being established in the Diocese of Pittsburgh to offer hope, healing and reconciliation to both the “afflicted” and the “affected.”

• Addiction is a symptom of the absence of spirituality that disconnects a person from self, loved ones, and God.
• SAM’s Mission is to help these people re-connect with self, loved ones, and God.
• SAM is a support ministry that helps people face the challenges that accompany addiction.
• No addict wants to be an addict.

Substance Addiction

Alcohol and drug addiction is an epidemic in our society. The entire family is “affected,” not just the ‘‘afflicted’‘ member. Addiction is an illness that devastates the whole person physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Substance addiction is not a moral problem or weakness. The American Medical Association (AMA) classifies alcohol and drug dependence as a primary disease, characterized by distinct stages of development, with specific signs and symptoms. If left untreated, it can be fatal.

Resources

National Catholic Council on Addictions:
nccatoday.org or call 1-800-626-6910

Alcoholics Anonymous:
aa.org

Al-Anon Family Groups:
al-anon.org

Narcotics Anonymous:
na.org

Nar-Anon Family Groups:
nar-anon.org

Spirituality

You are welcome to join us and pray with SAM ministry at the current parishes. Anyone suffering from addiction deserves our love, our prayers, and our support. The identity of those seeking support from the SAM ministry will remain anonymous.

First Tuesday of every month – 6:30 p.m.
St. Louise de Marillac
320 McMurray Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15241

Before the Blessed Sacrament, pray the Rosary and then from 7:00-8:00 pm there will be a SAM gathering for those seeking support and fellowship in the Bishop Leonard Room. Also, there will be (4) presentations and/or videos during the year about addiction.

Every Monday – 2:00-3:00 p.m.
St. Thomas More
126 Fort Couch Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15241

Before the Blessed Sacrament, SAM ministry of the Diocese of Pittsburgh.

Every Tuesday – 6:30 p.m.
SS. Simon and Jude
1607 Greentree Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15220

Before the Blessed Sacrament, SAM Ministry and at 7:00pm, confession.

Grief Support Group

A support group for those who have lost a loved one to the disease of addiction is now available. The group meets every first and third Monday of the month. It is held at Saint Louise in the LeGras Conference Room starting at 7:00pm. The group is facilitated by a certified counselor, Adrian Miller, MSCP, NCC. This opportunity provides those who have lost a loved one a safe place to share and listen to others who are experiencing this as well. If you have questions or would like more information please contact Glenn at gr_phillips@msn.com

This grief support group is sponsored by the Substance Addiction Ministry (SAM) of the Pittsburgh Diocese. It is open to all persons regardless of their faith or religion.