What is recovery?
There are many different definitions of recovery depending on the source and purpose. Arguably, one of the most common themes of recovery is that it is a process, not a single event. It’s an ongoing journey of achieving and maintaining abstinence and it involves developing new coping skills and habits.
Holistic Approach
Additionally, there are holistic approaches which employ going beyond simply stopping the use or habit. This includes improving physical and mental health, social support, and works to improve overall quality of life. A significant part of recovery is also confronting and repairing the damage to relationships, finances and self-esteem caused by addiction.
Here at St. Anthony’s, we support recovery by providing safe spaces to gather discreetly and have vetted presenters and speakers to guide and lead people in each step of their journey.
What is a serenity retreat?
We hope you’ll find these monthly reflections, heartfelt testimonials, and a calendar of our upcoming recovery events useful on your journey or the journey of a loved one. We encourage you to explore resources including links to 12-step information and AODA counseling.
Serenity Retreats 2026
January 16-18, 2026 Serenity Retreat: Fourth and Fifth Steps
June 5-7, 2026 Serenity Retreat:
October 2-4, 2026 Serenity Retreat:
First Tuesday of each Month – Women Creating in Recovery, facilitated by Candace Bahr and various local presenters
Reflection
Looking back on the past month, consider the moments that brought you joy, challenges you faced, and the lessons you learned. Reflect on how you took care of yourself, supported others, and showed kindness. Identify areas of growth and areas where you may want to focus more attention in the upcoming month. Remember to be compassionate towards yourself as you review your journey over the past few weeks.

Testimonials
“Entering the driveway a peaceful feeling came upon me. It was an amazing weekend of fellowship. ” K.S.
“Hope was restored! “M.P.
“The Trails and the out door offerings were very nurturing for my spirit.” S.D.
Resources
12 Step Resources
Alcoholics Anonymous Resources
- Online intergroup AA https://aa-intergroup.org/join-oiaal
- Northern Wisconsin AA http://www.aa.org/
- Area 74 AA http://www.area74.org/
- Grapevine http://www.aagrapevine.org/
Narcotics Anonymous Resources
- NA https://usa-na.org
- Wisconsin Region NA http://wisconsinna.org
Over Eaters Anonymousoa.org
Gamblers Anonymoushttp://gamblersanoymous,org
Codependent Anonymouscoda.org
Sex Addicts Anonymous saa-recovery.org
Cocaine Anonymoushttp://ca.org
ACA Resources
- ACA adultchildren.org
- Northeast Wisconsin ACA Intergroup 612http://new612aca.com
Friends & Family Resources
- AL-ANON http://al-anon.org
- NAR-ANON nar-anon.org
Podcasts
- Recovery show podcast https://podcasts.apple.com
- Sober Cast https://sobercast.com
- The Phoenix Spirit http://www.thephoenixspirit.com
“Peace is the result of retraining your mind to process life as it is, rather than as you think it should be.”
– Wayne Dyer
God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.