Abstinence From Alcohol

We believe that The Salvation Army has been prophetically called by God to a lifestyle which is a radical alternative to the world as it is and that abstinence from alcohol is one part of our response to this call. Accordingly, by personal commitment and covenant made on enrolment, soldiers of The Salvation Army abstain from the consumption of alcohol. This is an international requirement in keeping with The Salvation Army's Orders and Regulations.

At low levels of consumption, there is evidence that alcohol has some health benefits in certain age groups, specifically reducing heart disease in older males and strokes in post-menopausal women. However the extent of these benefits is not clear and the protection noted for the heart can be gained by other means, such as exercise or changes to the diet¹. These health benefits need to be balanced against the evidence of harm caused by alcohol which is now recognised at levels of drinking previously considered safe.

The abuse of alcohol can damage health, family life, employment and financial security. It impairs judgement which can have devastating consequences such as domestic and other violence, reduced in inhibitions and injury or death. Early introduction to alcohol, binge drinking and the abuse of alcohol can lead to alcoholism, a disease that affects individuals, families and communities.

For those who have found that the use of alcohol disrupts their lives, The Salvation Army provides a safe and supportive environment within our corps and social programmes. In undertaking this work and as an expression of our social responsibility it would be inconsistent for The Salvation Army to condone the use of alcohol particularly by soldiers (1 Corinthians 8:13). In support of their covenant and the principle of abstinence, soldiers should not provide alcohol to their guests. Alcohol should not be consumed on Salvation Army premises or at Salvation Army functions.

The Salvation Army believes that life can be lived to the full without the use of alcohol. Alcohol is a drug that can be addictive. “There is no amount of alcohol that can be said to be safe for everyone² for some people one drink can be one too many. Research has not been able to answer the question of why someone becomes addicted while another person does not. Non-drinking is always an option. For many people it is the best option and for some people it is the only option³.

While abstinence is a requirement for Salvation Army soldiers, people who do drink alcohol are welcome to participate in worship and share in the fellowship at The Salvation Army.

Footnotes

1. http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/publications/synopses/_files/ds10-alcohol.pdf

2. Australian Government Department of Health & Ageing:www.alcohol.gov.au/25/06/2008

3. The Facts Binge Drinking & Alcohol Abuse, The Salvation Army Australia Eastern Territory Public Relations Sydney NSW - 2006 - p18