Connection

 Usually people say that the opposite of addiction is sobriety.  Maybe sobriety does not quite hit the right note.  In addiction one is terribly lonely.  It is the disease of loneliness.  Sobriety is better defined as connection rather than not being into the addiction.  If an addict is not into their addiction but has no real connection with people on a heart to heart level, then they are merely dry.  A big part of a home group is that you get to know people and are known.  You get together outside the hour meeting.  From this practice you learn to make friends outside of Co-addicts because you have a new demeanor and new social skills.  In religion people want to have a home parish where they can be known and know others on a more spiritual heart to heart level.  This is why it is so important for parish regulars to welcome the newcomer.  AA does this very well, because everyone was once a newcomer.  Part of recovery and ongoing sobriety is about connection.  If you want your meeting or parish to flourish then welcome the stranger.