Introduction

12-step recovery meetings and Quaker meetings share some remarkable similarities, particularly in their emphasis on community and the sharing of personal experiences. However, these two types of gatherings are fundamentally different in their structure, purpose, and practices. This article will explore these differences and similarities, providing a comprehensive understanding of how these meetings cater to their respective communities.

Similarities in Community and Sharing

1. Community and Support

Both 12-step and Quaker meetings foster a strong sense of community among participants. Whether it is a sense of shared struggles or a communal worship environment, both meetings aim to bring people together to offer and receive support.

2. Sharing Personal Experiences

A key aspect of both meetings is the sharing of personal experiences. Participants in these meetings often speak about their journeys, providing valuable insight and connection for others.

Structural Differences

The structure of 12-step and Quaker meetings diverges significantly, reflecting their distinct purposes and practices.

12-Step Meetings

Structural Elements:

Typically have a defined agenda and specific readings, such as the Twelve Steps and the Twelve Traditions. Facilitated by a leader or facilitator, often with a set order of events. Including specific activities like sharing time or addressing specific topics.

Role of the Secretary: The Secretary is responsible for maintaining order and decorum during the meeting, with the position often rotating among members.

Quaker Meetings

Unstructured Meetings:

Participants sit in silence, with no formal leader. There is no predefined agenda or reading from specific texts. Attendees feel led to speak when the Spirit moves them.

Focus on Personal Reflection: Quaker meetings are centered on spiritual worship and personal contemplation. The emphasis is on individual spiritual growth and social justice.

Purpose and Practices

12-Step Meetings:

Focus on recovery from addiction and supporting individuals in their journey toward sobriety. Primarily serve as a platform for individuals to share their experiences and offer encouragement and advice to those in similar situations.

Quaker Meetings:

Center on spiritual worship and communal contemplation. Emphasize personal reflection and the connection with the divine. Address broader issues of social justice within a wider spiritual context.

The Variety of 12-Step Meetings

It is important to note that not all 12-step meetings follow the same format. Based on the above experience, meetings can be categorized as "open" or "closed". "Open" meetings are accessible to anyone, while "closed" meetings are for alcoholics only. Other types of meetings include: "men’s" or "women’s" meetings, "speaker" meetings, and "book study" meetings, with many recordings available online.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many meetings shifted to a virtual format through platforms such as Zoom. This change has made it easier for individuals to find a meeting in their area through a quick internet search.

Conclusion

While 12-step recovery meetings and Quaker meetings share a common goal of fostering a sense of community and promoting personal growth, their structures, purposes, and practices are quite different. Understanding these differences can help individuals find the type of meeting that best suits their needs and preferences.

Keywords: 12-step meetings, Quaker meetings, addiction recovery