Alcohol and drug problems interfere with the capacity of families impacted by addiction to develop and sustain a meaningful spiritual life. A pastor or chaplain is often the first person approached by a person troubled by their own addiction or that of a family member. Clergy and other pastoral ministers have a wide array of opportunities to address these problems and lead hurting families to recovery support and healing.

The Clergy Education and Training Project® was developed as part of the NACoA Faith Initiative. Developed in collaboration with major national faith organizations, it provides education and tools to help faith communities understand and to address addiction effectively. It has spanned 15 years, creating seminary curriculum, handbooks, training manuals to educate faith leaders and congregants about addiction and its devastating impact on families and especially developing children, webinars, and other educational tools. The project developed Core Competencies for Clergy and Other Pastoral Ministers In Addressing Alcohol and Drug Dependence and the Impact on Family Members® which became the basis for clergy and faith community education in addiction, its destruction of individuals and families, and the role of clergy in its solutions. Included have been over 40 one-day seminars in as many cities for 80-100 clergy and other pastoral ministers and tools to support community and congregation-based efforts.

For information, contact NACoA.