12 Traditions for Church

By unknown (Matthäusmaler) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

This page is for a discussion of the 12 Traditions of AA and how they can be applied to Church.  

"The twelve traditions are the basis for the organisation and orderly conduct of the groups, preserving the unity of the fellowships.  Additionally the twelve world concepts ensure that the management of the global and national structures maintain responsibility to the groups they serve. "  AA literature.


12 Step ChurchTradition 2   The full tradition is ‘For our 12 Step Church purpose there is but one ultimate authority – a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience.  Our leaders are but trusted servants they do not govern.’

12 Step Church Tradition 3  The only requirement for 12 step Church membership is a desire to love and serve God through following the Way of Jesus Christ.  To know Him more clearly, love Him more dearly, and follow Him more nearly, day by day. (Short Form) (with thanks to Richard of Chichester).

(Long Form) Our membership ought to include all who want to find God through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and live in accordance with His will for us.  Hence we may refuse none who wish to pray and worship in His name and follow Him. Nor ought 12 step Church membership ever depend upon money or conformity. Any two or three people gathered together for Christian prayer, worship and fellowship may call themselves a 12 step Church of Christ group, provided that, as a group, they have no other affiliation.

12 Step Church Tradition 8

Short Form:  A 12 step Church should remain forever non-professional, but  may employ special workers”.

Long Form: A 12 Step Church should remain forever non-professional.  We define professionalism as the occupation of undertaking prayer, worship or any other Church related functions for fees or hire.  But we may employ Christians where they are going to perform those services for which we might otherwise have to engage non-christians.  Such special services may be recompensed.  But our usual 12 Step Church work is never to be paid for.”