Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a fellowship of people who share their experiences, strengths, and hopes with the goal of solving their common problem and helping others recover from alcoholism. Meetings form the core structure of this program, providing a consistent, supportive environment for members to connect and share their journey. Understanding the time commitment involved is one of the first practical considerations for someone new to the fellowship.
The Standard Duration of an AA Meeting
The vast majority of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are scheduled to last approximately 60 minutes, or one hour. This duration is considered ideal because it is long enough for meaningful sharing and discussion without becoming overwhelming for attendees. A volunteer facilitator guides the meeting and ensures it adheres closely to the scheduled time.
The one-hour timeframe allows for consistency across different groups and locations. While one hour is the norm, some meetings are scheduled for 90 minutes to accommodate a more in-depth format or a larger number of attendees. Conversely, some groups, especially those held during lunch hours, may opt for a shorter 45-minute format.
Factors That Influence Meeting Length
While the one-hour meeting is the most common, the specific type of meeting often dictates whether it runs shorter or longer. Meetings focused on studying the Twelve Steps or Twelve Traditions frequently require more time for reading and group discussion, often extending the session to 90 minutes.
Speaker meetings, where one member shares their personal story of recovery, may also run slightly longer than 60 minutes. The length of the speaker’s share and subsequent member responses can push the meeting closer to 90 minutes. External factors, such as the location or venue, can impose hard time limits, especially if a group meets in a hospital or office building.
How the Time is Structured During a Meeting
The structured time within a meeting is generally divided into three main segments. The meeting typically begins with the chairperson reading introductory statements, such as the AA Preamble and the Serenity Prayer. This opening portion usually takes the first five to ten minutes to set the tone and establish the group’s focus.
The bulk of the meeting time, often 40 to 45 minutes of a one-hour meeting, is dedicated to the main program. This segment involves either sharing, discussion on a chosen topic, or listening to a guest speaker’s story. Most meetings close with announcements, the passing of a collection basket for group expenses, and a closing prayer or moment of silence, typically taking the final five minutes.