Embracing Spiritual Growth Through Meditation and Prayer in Alcoholics Anonymous

Introduction

The journey of recovery in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is deeply personal, often marked by a search for spiritual connection and inner peace. At the New Phoenix Group, the 11th Step Meditation Meeting provides a unique and inclusive space for members to explore meditation and prayer as tools for centering themselves and deepening their relationship with a higher power. Held every Saturday at 6:00 PM, this meeting welcomes anyone seeking serenity, regardless of background or belief.

Understanding the 11th Step

The 11th Step of AA encourages members to “seek through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.” This step is not prescriptive about how one should pray or meditate; rather, it invites each individual to find practices that resonate with their own understanding and experience. At the New Phoenix Group, we honor this principle by fostering an environment free from dogma or religious affiliation.

The Structure of Our Meditation Meetings

Each Saturday at 6:00 PM, members gather in a spirit of openness and mutual respect. The meeting begins with a brief introduction, welcoming both newcomers and regular attendees. We explain the purpose of the meeting and emphasize that everyone is free to participate in whatever way feels comfortable.

The core of the meeting consists of a period of silent meditation, sometimes preceded by a short reading or guided reflection. Members are encouraged to use any meditation technique that suits them—be it mindfulness, breath awareness, visualization, or any other method. There is no expectation to follow a particular form. The focus is on personal experience and the willingness to be present in the moment.

Meditation and Prayer: Pathways to Spiritual Connection

Meditation and prayer in the context of the 11th Step are seen as pathways to greater self-awareness, serenity, and spiritual growth. For some, this involves connecting with a higher power; for others, it may simply mean cultivating inner calm and clarity. The meeting provides a safe, nonjudgmental space for these practices, honoring the diversity of beliefs and backgrounds among participants.

Through meditation, members learn to quiet the mind, center themselves, and become more attuned to their own thoughts and feelings. Prayer, in whatever form it takes, is understood as a way to seek guidance, strength, and understanding. The combination of these practices helps foster a deeper sense of peace and connection—both with oneself and with whatever higher power one chooses to acknowledge.

No Promotion of Any One Method or Belief

A key aspect of the New Phoenix Group’s 11th Step Meditation Meeting is its commitment to inclusivity. We do not promote any one form of meditation over another; all practices are welcomed and respected. Whether a member prefers sitting in silence, listening to gentle music, reciting affirmations, or following a guided meditation, their choice is honored.

Importantly, the meeting has no religious affiliation. Participants come from a wide range of faiths, philosophies, and spiritual traditions—and some may identify as agnostic or atheist. Our only aim is to support each individual’s journey toward greater well-being and spiritual connection, in whatever way makes sense to them.

Community and Support

In addition to the meditation and prayer practices, the meeting includes time for sharing and reflection. Members are invited (but not required) to speak about their experiences, insights, or challenges. This sharing helps build a sense of community, reminding everyone that they are not alone in their recovery journey.

The supportive atmosphere encourages honesty, openness, and mutual respect. Many members find that the simple act of sitting together in silence, followed by heartfelt sharing, creates powerful bonds and deepens their commitment to recovery.

Conclusion

The 11th Step Meditation Meeting at the New Phoenix Group stands as a testament to the transformative power of meditation and prayer. By creating a space that is inclusive, non-judgmental, and free from religious affiliation, we enable members to explore their own paths to spiritual growth—one moment of mindfulness at a time. Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced practitioner, you are welcome to join us every Saturday at 6:00 PM, as we seek greater serenity and connection together.