Big Book Lead Discussion

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: In Illinois, AA meetings often feature discussions centered on the Big Book. Clients read this collection of stories about men and women who overcame alcohol use disorder for inspiration.

Birthday: In AA, birthdays refer to the last day (or the day after) that a member used alcohol or drugs. Birthday anniversaries are celebrated as milestones to encourage sobriety.

Closed: Closed AA meetings in Illinois are not open to outside observers. Instead, only AA members or individuals looking for help with a drinking problem are invited to attend. The discussions center around topics related to alcoholism and recovery and are of particular value to newcomers.

Discussion: AA discussion meetings in Illinois allow members to reflect upon and discuss a specific aspect of alcohol addiction and recovery. The leader will usually begin the meeting by referencing an AA text, such as Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions. Then, they will invite others to share.