Must We Believe in God For AA to Work?

I do not believe in God. And have been sober for six years, The last year and half without a meeting. I do not want to offend other members. But taking part in the lords prayer, is one part I don't like to be forced into.

I recently started back to check out different groups. I made some good friends in AA before. It's difficult to keep saying that the group is my
higher power.

Answer

Hey Curtis

Not at all. Remember AA is not a religious group, but a spiritual one, where irrespective of your beliefs they have a program that will work for you - if you work the program.

I think they simply use the word God because that's the word most people can relate to when thinking of their Higher Power - but remember they also say 'God or however you understand God.' So your understanding of God may be another Higher Power that works for you, whether it be Nature, The Universe, Energy, whatever. Don't let man-made labels get in the way of what you believe or don't believe.

The fact is you've done really well getting to 6 years sober, so use what works for you and don't use what doesn't. If you're not comfortable saying the Lords prayer then then don't say it. You obviously enjoy the community and friends you can make at AA, so if that's what keeps you going and helps keep you sober, don't let one thing stop you from going.

There are also loads of people that manage sobriety and happiness without working a formal 12 step program - but have basically put together their own recovery program based on what works for them.

So simply focus on what works for you and the bits you can use and like. The main thing is your sobriety, so if that always remains your focus you'll be fine.

Take Care