Alcohol: it’s a substance that holds different meanings for different people. For some, it is seen as a way to unwind or socialize, while for others, it leads to devastating consequences. The Salvation Army takes a clear stance on alcohol based on our understanding of its impacts. Our position is as follows:
The Salvation Army encourages an alcohol free lifestyle as a way of enhancing the wellbeing and health of all people. As a witness to this, Salvation Army soldiers choose to live an alcohol free life. The Salvation Army recognises the harm alcohol causes in individuals, families and communities. It advocates for reducing the consumption of alcohol, and it offers its services to support and restore people negatively impacted by alcohol use.
Alcohol isn’t just another drink …
Alcohol isn’t just another drink; it’s a mind-altering substance with sedative effects similar to potent drugs. The dangers associated with alcohol misuse are manifold: from the risk of poisoning and dependence to the potential for violence, accidents and workplace injuries. Despite its widespread use, alcohol always carries the potential for harm and dependency.
The Salvation Army recognizes the global scale of alcohol-related issues. From personal struggles to community-wide crises, the abuse of alcohol wreaks havoc on individuals, families and entire communities. Despite the multi-billion dollar alcohol industry’s attempts to portray alcohol as harmless, The Salvation Army remains steadfast in raising awareness about its dangerous and harmful impacts.
Alcohol-free living is a means to honour God…
As Christians, Salvationists draw upon Scriptural teachings that emphasize the sanctity of human life and the body. Passages like 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 encourage believers to be good stewards of their bodies, and alcohol-free living is a means to honour God and promote health and wellbeing.
The Salvation Army’s commitment to an alcohol-free lifestyle isn’t just theoretical; it’s deeply rooted in our history and mission. From the earliest days of The Salvation Army, after witnessing the devastating effects of alcohol abuse on individuals, families and communities, a decision was made requiring soldiers to abstain from alcohol. Today, The Salvation Army’s position on alcohol remains steadfast. As Soldiers we voluntarily commit to abstaining from alcohol, serving as living examples of the positive benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle. Additionally, The Salvation Army actively engages in prevention and education programmes worldwide, providing assistance to those affected by alcohol abuse and advocating for responsible legislation and industry practices.
In a world where alcohol consumption is normalized, The Salvation Army’s stance may seem countercultural. However, it is a reflection of our commitment to honour God with our bodies, and caring for individuals and communities.
‘Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honour God with your bodies’ (1 Cor. 6:19-20 NIV).
The Salvation Army’s International Positional Statement on Alcohol in Society