What is a Candlelight AA Meeting?

Embracing a Spiritual Connection in the Candlelight Setting

Have you heard an Alcoholics Anonymous member mention a candlelight meeting and been unsure of what they meant? This blog post will help clarify the concept, and let you in on our favorite reasons why a candlelight group is a part of our weekly meeting schedule!

If you’d like to go to a rehab that allows you to go to candlelight AA meetings as part of its program, look no further than Icarus Behavioral Health in Nevada, where both SMART and 12-step-based programs are made accessible for our clients.

Read on to find out more about the candlelight setting for Alcoholics Anonymous program meetings, and why such meetings are often sought out by those with successful recovery in their lives!

Embracing Recovery in New Settings

A candlelight AA meeting is a special type of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meeting that takes place in the evening and involves lighting candles as part of the ritual. These open meetings often take on a more somber yet comforting atmosphere than typical daytime meetings and can be beneficial for those who are struggling with addiction issues.

The purpose of an AA Candlelight Meeting is to provide additional support for members recovering from alcoholism by providing an opportunity for them to share their experiences, losses, hopes, and fears in a safe and inviting setting. As one might expect based on its name alone, participating in candlelight meetings requires some form of illumination, typically candles.

Where are Candlelight Meetings Typically Held?

Candlelight AA meetings can be held either in-person or online. In-person meetings tend to take place at a local church, library, or other private space where there are enough chairs and tables for all participants. During the meeting, members may share their experiences openly or privately as they feel comfortable doing so. The group leader will then guide them by providing resources and advice that could help them stay sober during times of temptation or difficulty.

In Person Candlelight Meetings

At an in-person candlelight meeting, members are often encouraged to bring their own candles—typically several white ones to represent light and hope—which can be lit when it’s time for members to speak up about their struggles or successes with sobriety. The flames of the candles provide a sense of comfort as members discuss their journeys, and can serve as a reminder that there is always light to be found in darkness.

Generally, anyone who can attend open AA meetings (which includes loved ones) can also join a candlelight group, but it is worth verifying meeting information online to be sure.

Online Candlelight Meetings

An online meeting held in the candlelight will follow the same format but is conducted virtually instead of in person. This allows people from all over the world to participate and share their experiences without having to travel anywhere or spend money on transportation costs.

While this type of meeting may not have the physical atmosphere of a candlelight group in person, many individuals find it just as beneficial as its traditional counterpart. No matter which venue you choose, irl or online can both help provide support to stay sober and overcome a drinking problem.

What is the Value of Candlelight Meetings?

Whether you choose to attend an in-person or online AA meeting in Reno, Las Vegas, or elsewhere in the state both types offer valuable support and guidance for those who need it most. By connecting with other men and women who are also interested in working on their sobriety, you can gain valuable insight and grow in your journey to recovery.

By taking part in a candlelight AA meeting, you may be able to get through tough days or weeks with more ease, as well as receive comfort from knowing that others understand exactly what it’s like to battle addiction issues. Remember that no matter how difficult things may seem at times, there is always help available when we reach out for it.

So if you’re feeling overwhelmed by substance abuse issues or simply want someone who understands what it’s like to struggle with addiction, consider joining a candlelight AA meeting—you just might find the help and support that you need in a unique setting!

What is Alcoholics Anonymous?

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a global association that was founded in 1935 to support those struggling with alcoholism. AA provides a supportive environment for individuals to come together and share experiences, strength, and hope. Members of the organization are encouraged to regularly attend meetings with other members who can provide understanding and guidance as they work towards recovery.

The main focus of AA meetings in Las Vegas, or anywhere across the world, is using the Twelve Step Program which emphasizes acceptance, surrendering control over alcohol use, establishing accountability through self-reflection, peer support, and taking responsibility for one’s own behavior. AA also offers resources such as literature, podcasts, online forums, and discussion groups individuals may attend to help recovering alcoholics understand their addiction better and find new ways to cope.

Alcoholics Anonymous and The Twelve Steps

This program provides a framework for members to progress through their recovery journey, based on accepted principles and practices that have been found to be effective in treating alcohol addiction.

The steps focus on accepting personal responsibility, acknowledging one’s own faults, making amends with those affected by addictive behaviors, and helping other alcoholics in recovery. Through this process, members learn how to manage cravings and triggers as well as develop the skills needed to live a healthy life free from alcohol use.

Getting Help For Alcoholism: Rehab vs AA

Rehab vs AA is not a grudge match, and it is never a choice of one over the other. Many people find that going to rehab before attending Alcoholics Anonymous is crucial. The primary reason you should consider attending rehabilitation before Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the safe detoxification process.

Detoxing from alcohol can be dangerous and even life-threatening if done without proper medical supervision, and rehab provides a medically supervised environment for detox. In rehab, you will receive medications to help reduce withdrawal symptoms as well as round-the-clock monitoring from medical staff. This ensures that the detox process is safe and can also help prevent relapse during early recovery.

Get a Safe Foundation for Pursuing Lasting Recovery

Rehab can also be beneficial before AA because it provides a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each client’s unique needs. In rehab, you will receive individualized care from professionals with expertise in addiction. Your treatment plan may include group and individual counseling, as well as alternative therapies such as yoga or art therapy.

At Icarus in Nevada, you will also have access to support groups and peer mentors who can provide guidance for early recovery. For more information on whether you should attend rehab before going to Alcoholics Anonymous, speak to a member of our dedicated Admissions team today.

All calls are completely confidential, so reach out now to get options for a sober life!