Common Concerns
No. You do not have to be religious or belong to any faith to attend AA. AA is a spiritual program, not a religious organization, and it is open to people of every belief and of no belief.
You do not have to be religious to be in AA. You do not have to belong to a church, denomination, or faith tradition. AA is not allied with any religion, sect, denomination, political group, or outside organization. AA's program uses spiritual language and refers to a "Power greater than ourselves," but members understand that idea in many different ways. Some members believe in God. Some are agnostic or atheist. Some begin by simply relying on the AA group, the program, or the experience of others. You may hear spiritual language or prayers at some meetings, but belief in God, membership in a religion, or participation in prayer is not required for AA membership. You are welcome exactly as you are. If you have questions, call San Fernando Valley Area of Alcoholics Anonymous at 818-988-3001.