The Firing Line Young People’s Group

Types of AA Meetings

Candlelight: Candlelight AA meetings are sessions in which members bring candles, usually white, that represent their hopes and goals. When each member shares, that member lights their candles as they discuss their challenges and successes.

Closed: In Wisconsin, closed AA meetings are not open to the general public and nonalcoholics cannot attend. The only people who may attend are AA members and individuals who understand they have a drinking problem and want to begin recovery. The discussions are informal and everyone can share.

Discussion: AA discussion meetings in Wisconsin give all members the chance to speak on one common subject related to alcohol addiction and recovery. These topics may tie into an AA text, such as the Big Book. Leaders will share first, and then the floor is open for other members to provide their input.

Speaker: Wisconsin AA centers may invite a speaker as part of its program. In their speeches, speakers motivate AA audiences to commit to sobriety through humor, charm, emotions, reason, and charm.

Step Meeting: Wisconsin AA centers often feature step meetings within their programs. Members discuss AA literature and their own experiences before strategizing on how to make their recovery stronger throughout the 12 Step program.

Tradition Study: Tradition Study sessions are AA reflections about the organization. Members discuss how AA chapters can be more successful in their purpose through greater unity and its outreach programs.

Young People: AA meetings for young people are intended for members in early adulthood, usually in their late teens and twenties. These groups focus on the experiences and issues that young people may face in their recovery.