Calix Society helps Catholics in recovery

Published: April 26, 2022

"A.A. restores your health and keeps you from an early grave. Calix saves your soul and puts you on the road to heaven." — William J. Montroy, a founder of Calix Society

The Calix Society of Central Arkansas helps Catholics in recovery or family members of those in recovery come together to find support and spiritual healing through the Catholic tradition. It is a unit (chapter) of the national organization, originally founded in 1947 in Minnesota to help alcoholics in recovery. In more recent years, meetings have also included those in recovery from other addictions such as drug use, gambling, sex addiction and more. 

All are welcome to attend Calix Society meetings, which are typically held the first Tuesday of each month. Chaplain Father Andrew Hart celebrates Mass at 5:30 p.m. in Fletcher Hall Chapel (ground level), and a meeting follows in the adjacent music room until 7 p.m. Please email calix@dolr.org to confirm the date and location for a given month, since occasional changes do occur based on availability. 

"Calix," which is Latin for “chalice,” is pronounced “kaylicks.” It is a Catholic organization guided by a chaplain. However, it is not a substitute for Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Anon or any other 12-step program like Celebrate Recovery or Growing in Grace. In fact, faithful attendance to these meetings is strongly recommended. Calix Society aims to help recovering alcoholics gain a better understanding of our “Higher Power,” who for Christians is Jesus Christ. “He is the key that opens all the hidden treasures of God’s wisdom and knowledge.” (Col. 2-3)

In the Diocese of Little Rock, Calix Society is a program of Catholic Charities of Arkansas. The next meeting will be held Tuesday, May 3 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in Fletcher Hall on the grounds of St. John Catholic Center in Little Rock. Visit the calendar to find the complete schedule. To learn more, e-mail calix@dolr.org or call (501) 960-0421.