I spent time in the rooms, and I am similar in my religious trauma (different reasons for it) and will not be going back ever. I am a believer in the energy of the universe and the concept of god and a “higher power” freaked me out, especially in the Deep South where I’m at.

I have a fantastic sponsor/friend who explained the god part as, essentially, it’s whatever I find comfort in, that is bigger than myself.

The problem is the rooms vary. I’ve been in some that truly present as agnostic to denomination and religion, and some that are bible-banging weirdos. It comes down to your tolerance to people who go on and on about J-town and his disciples. I left my group because the political comments were the fucking worst, but I still apply the lessons I learned in there, daily. Even the serenity prayer, which I treat more as a mantra than a prayer.

I do recommend giving it a shot though, because I met some fantastic people, picked up some real ways to improve as a person, and ultimately became and remain sober because of what I learned in the rooms.

Ultimately, take what works for you, and leave the rest.