AA Prayers (Inclusive, Non-Religious Options) | Serenity Prayer Meaning

AA Prayers & Spiritual Wording (No Pressure, No Religion)

AA Prayers in AA Alcoholics Anonymous Online Zoom Meeting Near Me for AA Recovery

Many AA meetings use prayer, a moment of silence, or simple spiritual wording. You never have to believe anything you don’t believe — the aim is to pause, reflect, and connect.

Serenity Prayer

The us version: "God grant us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change, courage to change the things we can and wisdom to know the difference."

A very common AA serenity prayer starts: “God, grant me the serenity to accept…” (often used as a reminder to focus on what we can control).

If religious words don’t work for you, use “Higher Power”, “Good orderly direction”, or simply “Help me”.

Inclusive alternatives:

Simple Serenity (inclusive): “Help me accept what I can’t change, change what I can, and learn the difference.”
Group-based: “Help me accept reality, take the next right action, and stay teachable.”
Short version: “Help me pause, breathe, and respond wisely.”

Meeting opening/closing options

Meeting opening options

Moment of silence
Short intention: “Help us be honest, open-minded, and willing.”
Gratitude intention: “Help us listen with respect and share with kindness.”

Meeting closing options

“Keep coming back.”
“One day at a time.”
“Thanks for being here — you’re not alone.”

Step-inspired prayers

There are many Step-inspired wording:

Step 3 style: “Help me stop running the show. Guide my thinking and actions today.”
Step 7 style: “Help me be humble, honest, and useful — and let go of what blocks me.”
Step 11 style: “Help me pause, listen, and do the next right thing.”

Two-way prayer

Two-way prayer (simple explanation)
Two-way prayer is a quiet practice some people use: you write a question (like “What’s the next right thing?”), sit quietly, then write what comes (without judging it). It’s not magic — it’s a tool to slow down and get honest.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Do you have to pray in AA?

No. AA doesn’t require prayer or any specific beliefs. Some meetings use prayer, some use a moment of silence, and some use simple spiritual wording. You can participate in whatever way feels comfortable — including just listening.

What if I’m atheist or agnostic?

You’re welcome. Many atheists and agnostics stay sober in AA. “God, or a Higher Power of your understanding” can mean whatever helps you stay sober — the group, the AA program, spiritual principles, nature, conscience, or simply “help that isn’t me.” You don’t have to force beliefs you don’t have.

What is the Serenity Prayer in AA?

It’s a short, widely used prayer/reading in Alcoholics Anonymous that helps people focus on acceptance, action, and perspective. The common AA meeting version is:
“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.”

Why do AA meetings use the Serenity Prayer?

Many groups use it because it’s a simple reminder of a core recovery skill: accept what you can’t change, take action where you can, and try to tell the difference. It can help the meeting settle, focus, and end on a calm note. It’s a tradition in many AA rooms, not a requirement.

What can I say instead of “God”?

Use words that work for you. Common alternatives include: Higher Power, Good Orderly Direction, Spirit of the universe, the group, the program, guidance, or simply “help”. Many people keep it simple: “Help me do the next right thing.”

Is there a longer Serenity Prayer?

You’ll see longer versions online. In AA meetings, the short version above is the one most commonly used.

Is a moment of silence OK?

Yes. A moment of silence is widely used and is a respectful option for mixed beliefs. It allows everyone to reflect in their own way, whether they pray, meditate, or simply pause.

How can I use the Serenity Prayer when I’m stressed or craving?

Pause and ask: (1) What can’t I change right now? (2) What can I change today? (3) What’s the next right action (call someone, join a meeting, eat, rest, get out of isolation)?

Are there any other prayers in AA besides the Serenity Prayer?

Yes. Different AA groups use different prayers or readings (and some use none at all). Common ones you may hear include the Third Step Prayer, Seventh Step Prayer, and the Lord’s Prayer in some meetings, plus a moment of silence or simple non-religious wording. AA doesn’t require prayer — you can participate in whatever way feels comfortable, including just listening.