Would you like some thoroughly documented information on the Christian upbringing, beliefs, and training received by A.A. cofounders Bill W. and Dr. Bob as youngsters in Vermont?
Well you can see it and hear it at The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference in Portland Maine of September 6-7, 2013.
Bill W. and Dr. Bob were both given extensive Christian training by their parents and grandparents--all of whom were strong Congregationalists. Bill W. and Dr. Bob both attended Congregational churches and Sunday schools as youngsters in Vermont--Bill at East Dorset Congregational Church, and then Manchester Congregational Church in Vermont; Bob Smith at North Congregational Church in St. Johnsbury Vermont.
Both youngsters were active in the Young Men's Christian Association. Bob Smith and his parents were active in Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor. Bob Smith attended the Congregational St. Johnsbury Academy in St. Johnsbury Vermont; and Bill W. attended Burr and Burton Seminary and Norwich University -- the former at Manchester, Vermont. At their respective academies, both men attended required Congregational church services and Bible studies, Bill W. took a four year Bible study course. Both men attended daily chapel with its sermons, reading of Scripture, hymns, and prayer sessions. Bill was president of Burr and Burton YMCA, and his girl friend Bertha Bamford was president of Burr and Burton YWCA; and the couple attended "Y" functions together.
And, now, after recent extensive research and travel to Vermont, we know how Bill W. frequently studied the Bible with his grandfather Griffith and with his friend Mark Whalon. Then, as Bill moved forward in high school, he became good friends with Ebby Thacher who attended the same seminary and had had extensive Christian training and Bible study in his younger years. There is lots more.
Come to The First International Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference in Portland Maine in September and ask questions, discuss facts, share your own knowledge, and hear experienced, long-
sober A.A. leaders, workers, newcomers, and recovery pastors. dickb@dickb.com, www.dickb.com
recovered Christian A.A. and 12 Step leaders and workers tell you how they are conducting Christian recovery studies in their own areas and venues. dickb@dickb.com, www.dickb.com
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