Originally Posted by
A.A.Alfie
the only require for membership is a desire to stop drinking
That might be it then. What I was after.
It isn't much of a religion in my eyes then. For me, what distinguishes a religion is an object of worship -- could be a concept or a supposed being of some sort. In that viewpoint, AA wouldn't be a religion, although it could still be a really creepy, cult-like, and even predatory club. (Could be, not necessarily is.)
I also think the point about religions not brooking the practice of other religions in their midst as a powerful discriminator. One does wonder how the group might react if you started your story with.... "And then I turned my life over to the power of Odin, and by Odin's command, I am able to maintain my sobriety. One day at a time; one day at a time."