AA Tradition 9 Checklist

The AA Tradition 9 Checklist serves as an essential tool for Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) groups and members to ensure they adhere to the principles outlined in AA Tradition 9. This tradition emphasizes the importance of maintaining AA’s non-hierarchical and non-organized structure while allowing for the creation of service boards or committees that are directly accountable to the AA community. By following this checklist, AA groups can ensure they remain true to the spirit of Tradition 9, promoting unity and effective service. Here are eight questions to guide you in evaluating your adherence to AA Tradition 9:

Details for AA Tradition 9 Checklist

1. Is our service structure designed to serve the needs of AA members rather than seeking power or control:

AA service boards and committees should be focused on providing services and support to the fellowship rather than pursuing personal power or control. This includes ensuring that decision-making is inclusive and consensus-based.

2. Do our service boards or committees prioritize the well-being of the fellowship over personal agendas:

The primary goal of any AA service body should be the welfare of the AA community, not advancing individual interests or agendas.

3. Are the decisions made within these service bodies always subject to the consent of the AA group conscience:

Decisions within AA service boards or committees should always be made in accordance with the collective conscience of the AA groups they serve, ensuring democratic and inclusive decision-making.

4. Do we avoid appointing leaders or authorities within AA, recognizing that each member is equal in importance:

Tradition 9 emphasizes the equality of all AA members, and service boards or committees should avoid creating hierarchical leadership positions that go against this principle.

5. Are the actions of our service boards or committees transparent and accountable to the fellowship:

Transparency and accountability are crucial to maintaining trust within AA. Service bodies should regularly communicate their actions and decisions to the broader AA community.

6. Do we strive to avoid the creation of hierarchies or positions of authority within AA service structures:

Tradition 9 calls for the avoidance of organizational hierarchies. Service structures should be designed to distribute responsibility and power evenly.

7. Is our service structure flexible and adaptable to the changing needs of the AA community:

AA service boards and committees should be open to change and evolution, adapting to the shifting needs and circumstances of the fellowship.

8. Are we vigilant in safeguarding the spiritual foundation of AA from becoming overshadowed by bureaucracy organization:

Tradition 9 reminds us to protect AA's spiritual core and prevent it from being overshadowed by organizational bureaucracy or excessive structure.

FAQ for AA Tradition 9 Checklist

1. What is the purpose of AA Tradition 9?

AA Tradition 9 serves to maintain the non-organized and non-hierarchical nature of Alcoholics Anonymous while allowing for the creation of service boards or committees accountable to the AA community.

2. How can AA groups ensure they adhere to Tradition 9?

AA groups can use the AA Tradition 9 Checklist to evaluate their adherence by considering key questions related to service structure and decision-making.

3. Can AA service boards have leaders or authorities?

Tradition 9 encourages avoiding the appointment of leaders or authorities within AA service structures to uphold the principle of equality among members.

4. Why is transparency important in AA service boards?

Transparency ensures that the actions and decisions of service boards or committees remain accountable to the fellowship, promoting trust and integrity within AA.

5. How can AA service structures adapt to changing needs?

Service structures should remain flexible and open to change, adjusting to the evolving needs of the AA community while adhering to Tradition 9's principles.

In Summary

The AA Tradition 9 Checklist is a valuable resource for AA groups and members to uphold the principles of AA Tradition 9. It helps ensure that service boards or committees remain focused on serving the needs of the fellowship without seeking power or control. By following this checklist and considering essential questions, AA groups can maintain their non-organized, non-hierarchical structure while effectively serving the AA community. This commitment to Tradition 9 helps preserve the spiritual foundation of Alcoholics Anonymous and fosters unity among its members.

ChecklistComplete

AA Tradition 9 Checklist

Is our service structure designed to serve the needs of AA members rather than seeking power or control?

Do our service boards or committees prioritize the well-being of the fellowship over personal agendas?

Are the decisions made within these service bodies always subject to the consent of the AA group conscience?

Do we avoid appointing leaders or authorities within AA, recognizing that each member is equal in importance?

Are the actions of our service boards or committees transparent and accountable to the fellowship?

Do we strive to avoid the creation of hierarchies or positions of authority within AA service structures?

Is our service structure flexible and adaptable to the changing needs of the AA community?

Are we vigilant in safeguarding the spiritual foundation of AA from becoming overshadowed by bureaucracy or organization?