On June 10th 2023, I was privileged to lead a prayer at the East Ohio Annual Conference. That weekend happened to coincide with the 88th anniversary of the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous. My step-dad is 19th years sober because of AA, so I decided to use my prayer time on that. Here is the prayer I offered up.

Loving and Gracious God,

On this sacred occasion, as we gather in the spirit of gratitude and remembrance, we lift our hearts to you. Today, we celebrate the 88th anniversary of Alcoholics Anonymous, a beacon of hope and healing for those who have struggled with addiction. We come before you with reverence and thanksgiving for the transformative power of this fellowship.

Dear God, we acknowledge that addiction can be a heavy burden, affecting not only individuals but also their families and loved ones. We offer our prayers for all those who have been impacted by addiction and have found solace and support through Alcoholics Anonymous. We pray for those who have faced the darkness of despair, loneliness, and hopelessness, and through the grace of this fellowship, have discovered a path to recovery and redemption.

Today, we lift up in prayer all those who have experienced the strength and compassion of Alcoholics Anonymous. We give thanks for the founders, Bill W. and Dr. Bob, who, inspired by your divine guidance, laid the groundwork for this life-changing fellowship. We ask that you bless and honor their memory as we carry their message of hope forward.

Heavenly Father, we pray for those currently walking the path of recovery. Grant them the strength to face each day with courage and determination. Surround them with a community of understanding and supportive friends who will walk alongside them, providing encouragement and accountability. We ask that you grant them wisdom and clarity of mind as they make choices that align with their recovery journey.

We also lift up the families and loved ones of those in recovery. May they find comfort and solace in knowing that their loved ones are finding healing and new beginnings. Grant them patience, compassion, and the understanding to support their loved ones in their ongoing journey of recovery.

In your infinite love and mercy, we ask for your blessings on all the meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous held around the world. May these gatherings be safe spaces where individuals can share their stories, find strength, and grow in their commitment to sobriety. Guide the facilitators and leaders of these meetings, that they may offer wisdom, guidance, and inspiration to those who seek help.

Finally, we extend our prayers to those who are still struggling with addiction, be it alcohol or any other substance. We ask that you grant them the courage to seek the help they need, and surround them with people who will offer compassion, understanding, and support. May they find the strength to embark on their own journey of recovery, knowing that they are not alone and that there is hope for a brighter future.

In your holy and compassionate name, we pray.

Amen.

Rev. Shane Russo