On the weekend of September 12-13, the Church in New York will commemorate Recovery Sunday: an annual day of prayer for those struggling with, and in recovery of, addictive illnesses to drugs, alcohol, gambling, and other substances and behaviors.  Begun in 1999 by Cardinal O’Connor with the help of Father Daniel Egan, S.A. and Therese Engel, Recovery Sunday continues under the pastoral leadership of Cardinal Dolan.

The following texts may be used as special intentions within the Universal Prayer on this Sunday:

-For those struggling with addictive illness of any kind, that they may know the support of God and His Church;

-For families of those suffering with addictive illnesses, that they may hear and know the message of hope that is expressed in our prayers for them today;

-That communities of faith may continue to reach out to those who are in need of recovery with open hearts, understanding, and friendship.