Church Endorsements"Guest House enjoys a preeminent place in the United States among treatment centers for the recovery of Catholic clergy and religious from addictions. The service of Guest House is an invaluable aid to the Archdiocese of Detroit, and to dioceses around the country and even dioceses around the world. Guest House shares in the work of Jesus Christ the Divine Physician, bringing healing and peace to those who would otherwise be at risk of becoming permanently afflicted by addiction."
—Most Reverend Allen H. Vigneron, Archbishop of Detroit "The work of Guest House is well-known to me, and I know that I speak for many of the bishops of the United States when I give thanks for all that it does in saving lives and vocations."
—Most Reverend Timothy M. Dolan, Archbishop of New York "It was my privilege to be Guest House's Minnesota bishop 1987-1997. But my relationship began much earlier through good priest friends and colleagues who were assisted there in their efforts to regain their lives and ministries after so much personal and professional loss resulting from addiction. Austin Ripley led the way in providing this "corporal work of mercy" for clergy and religious. But Guest House provides far more than physical needs. The recovery of meaningful spiritual relationships with the Lord and His people is an essential element in the program of recovery. I am pleased to endorse the important work and mission of Guest House and to express my deep appreciation to all who carry out and support this invaluable service."
—Most Reverend John G. Vlazny, Archbishop of Portland in Oregon
“I thank you heartily for the great work you are doing at Guest House, treating and taking care of priests and religious suffering from alcoholism. I would like to assure these brothers and sisters of the nearness of the Pontifical Council to them, especially in this year dedicated to the Priesthood.”
—Zygmunt Zimowski, President of the Pontifical Council for Health Care Workers “The Guest House mission is, indeed, one that is truly praiseworthy and noble. It is my fervent prayer and earnest hope that, particularly during this 50th Anniversary year, your service and educational efforts will receive the support they deserve.”
—Most Rev. Pietro Sambi, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States “Today, as society and the Church face new anxieties and pressures, the mission of Guest House is as important as ever…. As one who served as a Diocesan Bishop in Michigan for many years, I owe a personal debt of gratitude to Guest House for all that it has done for the clergy whom I referred for treatment.”
—Edmund Cardinal Szoka, President, Vatican City State “As Archbishop of Chicago for over thirteen years and a bishop elsewhere and a religious superior, I have personally witnessed the results of the renewal of mind and spirit attained by priests and religious who are alumni of Guest House. We can’t afford to lose a good Priest, Brother or Sister. By sending them to Guest House, we know that they will return to their ministry, able to continue representing Jesus to their people.”
—Francis Cardinal George, O.M.I., Archbishop of Chicago “Literally thousands of priests in the Archdiocese and throughout our country and even throughout the world have benefited from your program.”
—Adam Cardinal Maida, Former Archbishop of Detroit “I’m glad to know that there are places of care for my clergy…. I want to thank you for the important ministry you exercise in the Church.”
—Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston
“From my earliest days as a priest, I was very familiar with many of the alumni from Guest House. I was proud of them—of their ability to become sober again—and certainly very proud of what Guest House had done in bringing back priests into the service of the Church.”
—Most Rev. Earl Boyea, Bishop of Lansing and Guest House’s Episcopal Moderator “Guest House provides a wonderful ministry to our clergy and religious suffering from alcoholism and drug dependencies. I am sure that our Risen Lord will bless you and all those who serve the suffering.”
—Most Rev. John H. Ricard, S.S.J., Bishop of Pensacola-Tallahasssee “The work you do for clergy and religious suffering from the diseases of alcoholism and other drug dependencies is extremely important for our Church. My prayers for you in this ministry continue.”
—Most Rev. Paul A. Zipfel, Bishop of Bismarck “Guest House has provided a remarkable service for priests and religious over the years. Literally, this program has given hope back to so many who have dedicated their lives to the works of the Church.”
—Most Rev. John C. Nienstedt, Archbishop of St. Paul and Minneapolis “Guest House has been and continues to be a safe haven for religious men and women who are in need of recovery and healing. Recently I read a quote from one of the former residents of Guest House who said that the 90 days he spent there were “life changing”…. What a special gift Guest House is to all of us. Their simple philosophy, Save the individual! Save the vocation! Is the center of every program they offer.”
—Most Rev. Edwin F. O’Brien, Archbishop of Baltimore “The unique role of Guest House has benefitted not only those who have come for help, but the countless numbers to whom these priests, deacons, men and women religious, and seminarians have served in their apostolate and works…. I offer my prayers and continued support for the success of Guest House and its work. May the Lord bless your efforts and your work as you offer healing, compassion, and new hope to many.”
—Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Former Archbishop of Philadelphia
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