Our daily meeting begins with a reading of the AA Preamble (see below), a reading of “How It Works” from the Big Book (beginning of chapter 5). Most nights we then have a “Chair”, where one member shares their experience, strength and hope for 15 to 20 minutes (anniversary shares can be up to 45 minutes). On Wednesdays and Saturdays we have a “Topic” that is presented on by either the host or a “Guest Chair”. The rest of the meeting is open sharing. Participants indicate their desire to share using the “raise hand” function in Zoom. Anyone who wants to share can do so. The meeting is closed by a reading of the “9th Step Promises”, and a prayer.
We aim for a 1 hour meeting but often overrun a little bit. The meeting is immediately followed by an informal “parking lot” discussion period for fellowship, which lasts until the last person logs off.
The meeting is run by the “Host”, who arranges for the “Chair” for the evening, and calls on individual members to share. “Co-Hosts” provide support roles during the meeting, such as letting people in from the waiting room, managing the chat, removing disruptive “zoom bombers” (which we do get on occasion…). The host and co-host are contactable using the chat function to answer questions during the meeting and provide assistance to participants.
Anyone who wants to be a “Chair” can also volunteer to do so by email or by sending a message to the “Host” or “Co-hosts”
Video Policy
To carry A.A.’s message of hope and recovery to the still suffering alcoholic, and as a courtesy to other members, we ask that participants remain visible with their video on for the duration of the meeting. While this is not mandatory, we will send a request to anyone with their video off to prompt them to turn it on.
AA Preamble
Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of people who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for A.A. membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions. A.A. is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization, or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy, neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.