Public Lecture - Father Ed: The Story of Bill W.'s Spiritual Sponsor

Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder Bill Wilson once described St. Louis Jesuit Father Edward Dowling as “the greatest and most gentle soul to walk this planet.” Though Father Ed was not an alcoholic himself, he devoted his life to walking alongside those who struggled: alcoholics, couples in strained marriages, and people living with mental illness, offering compassion, spiritual wisdom, and hope.

Join award-winning author and theologian Dawn Eden Goldstein for an engaging exploration of Father Ed’s remarkable life and enduring influence. Drawing from her Christopher Award–winning biography Father Ed: The Story of Bill W.’s Spiritual Sponsor, Goldstein reveals how Father Ed’s pastoral care and deep grounding in Ignatian spirituality helped inspire Bill W. to integrate spiritual reflection into the Twelve Steps, shaping a recovery movement that has transformed millions of lives worldwide.

This event is an invitation to reflect on the power of accompaniment, mercy, and spiritual friendship. Whether you are interested in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous, Ignatian spirituality, pastoral care, or stories of quiet but profound influence, this talk offers rich insight and inspiration. All are welcome to come and discover the legacy of a priest whose gentle guidance changed lives and continues to do so today.

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Host or Publisher St. Mary's University - Calgary