From start to finish, this list would be one of many suggested 12 step meeting formats. There are many variations based on each group, however in this layout. Overall, each 12 step meeting follow some of the items below in a participation meeting.
- General introduction and greeting.
- Group leader asks for a quiet moment, followed by a 12 step prayer.
- Guidelines of meetings, including its purpose, openness and confidentiality of members.
- In an AA meeting, readings are from any of its several approved literature books.
- Member introductions, including yourself by first name only. Anonymity is key.
- Group leader introduces himself/herself and a guest member to talk to group
- Participation to makes short comments or replies on topics earlier spoken about
- Business portion of meetings includes any announcements relating to the group.
- Each group is self-supported through its own voluntary contributions. Usually $1.
- Group meetings close by members reciting a prayer in unison. Gives strength.
To fellowship is a 12 step group intent to have members get familiar with one another, through their common problems and life experiences. In this process, refreshments such as coffee, tea, doughnuts, cookies, etc. may be served before the meeting, during discussions, or after the group concludes. In strengthening the fellowship, individuals in the group may decide to perform a task such as being a greeter inside or outside meeting place, coffee chef (make coffee), contribution basket facilitator (passing the bucket). Some members after a length of sobriety (this varies in each group) assume responsible roles often call commitments by becoming a group’s chairperson, treasurer, secretary or group representative in larger areas where more of the same organization’s meetings are held.
Members in recovery for with notable sobriety (some measure in months or years) help new members of the group by becoming a sponsor. A sponsor is suggestive in a group to offer encouragement, provide support and talk to about matters specifically relating to material not understood in the approved reading material. While others make more of this uniquely voluntary role, it should be kept to guidelines of each organization. Some benefits of having a sponsor is support in person or by phone, talking situations through, eliminate loneliness which causes triggering events leading to relapses to be averted. Relationships lasting a lifetime may evolve with sponsors from its members through regular contact and daily communication.
