My friend invited me to a mental health and AA meeting. Problem is that it’s in a church basement. Am I allowed to go?
One may enter a social hall of a church if necessary for a non-religious but kosher gathering, provided it is not in the sanctuary. The room would need to be set up for this purpose, e.g. the basement or a different room, since everyone knows that it is set up for voting or the like. This applies only for a one-time thing like voting. However, to attend a church social room on a continuous basis for other non-religious social needs would not be allowed. Also, if the location can be changed, it must be changed.
Regarding AA in general, please see the following link on our website for possible halachic and psychological issues that may be involved:
Sources:
See Teshuvos V’hanhugos 2:410. Chayei Halevi 4:63.
See also:
Is it permitted to vote if your voting location is in a church?
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