BC Secular AA Roundup
BCSAAR July 13, 2024
British Columbia Secular AA Roundup
George Preston Recreation Centre in Langley, BC
By Geoffrey H.
The goal of the upcoming July 13, 2024, “One Big Tent” roundup will be to promote secular principles within AA and to continue to inspire and guide the community towards inclusivity, compassion, and unity with opportunities for fellowship and fun to stimulate connections among like minded members of AA. “One Big Tent” 2024, will include speakers Joe C., and Ray Baker, MD.
Joe C and
Ray B
Joe C. is author of Beyond Belief: Agnostic Musings for 12 Step Life and host of Rebellion Dogs Radio. Dr. Ray Baker is a certified addiction physician and author of his most recent book Recovery Coaching Knowledge and Skills.
The inaugural May 2020, BC roundup was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The subsequent event in 2023 was named “One Big Tent” and was led by North America keynote speakers Joe C., Ray B., Beth H., and Caroline W., as well as a member sponsored panel-table discussion group on spirituality. The format of the roundup offered attendees a platform to engage with thought-provoking talks by the speakers as well as panel discussions with members. It attracted 75 participants from Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest, USA, and included a delicious lunch. It highlighted the growing interest and support for secular AA in the surrounding region. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) has long served as a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with alcohol addiction, providing a supportive community based on mutual aid and spiritual growth. However, within the diverse fabric of AA membership, there are individuals whose beliefs do not align with traditional spiritual or religious paradigms. Recognizing and embracing this diversity, the concept of secular AA has emerged as an essential space within AA for individuals seeking a recovery path that respects their unique philosophical outlook.
In Canada, the dedicated efforts of people like Roger C. and his website AA Agnostica have been instrumental in fostering the expansion of secular AA meetings and initiatives, spurring the growth of AA support groups, and AA secular roundups across North America.
This article is submitted by the One Big Tent planning committee, consisting of members from BC and Washington State secular AA groups.
Click here for more information about the BC Secular AA Roundup and ticket purchase.
Joe C has written a total of 22 articles published on AA Agnostica. Here is one of them: Pathways to Recovery and Desistance.
And here’s an article written by Ray B and also posted on AA Agnostica: Anonymity and Recovery Advocacy.
Geoff H. discovered AA more than 40 years ago. He regularly attends AA meetings. His journey has lead him to secular AA and he is enjoying the growth and fellowship he continues to experience.
Great article!
So good to see aaagnostica up and running again! Thank you Roger
Glad to see serious in person celebratory events happening again! And it will be great to see what the re-opened website brings. Thanks, Roger.