Starting the Meeting
- Wait a few minutes after the start time to allow stragglers to join.
- Welcome all participants.
- Read the Opening Statement.
- Ask if there are any:
- Newcomers
- Observers such as therapists, students, partners
- Observers
- If any has joined who is not there because they are concerned about their own drinking, ask the group if they feel comfortable having an observer. The participants can answer in the chat box. If anyone is not comfortable, you may ask the Observer to leave and attend a Newcomers Meeting.
- Observers often will email MM in advance asking if they can attend a specific meeting. We always suggest they attend a Newcomer’s Meeting as they are our only true “open” meetings. If they are unable to attend a Newcomer’s Meeting, we do our best to notify that meeting’s facilitator(s) by email in advance to let them know an observer will be present.
- Newcomers
- While it is not a requirement that anyone attend a Newcomer’s meeting before joining any other MM meeting, they are a great resource for someone who is just getting started. They happen on the 1st and 3rd Monday (Daytime) and 2nd and 4th Thursday (Evening) of each month. Please recommend them to anyone who is new to MM.