Salvation Army and alcohol

[Abiel]

Someone told me that in some territories (eg France) Salvationists are allowed to drink alcohol. Can any one shed any light on this for me?

Italy too I now understand. The point being, that if it is correct that some territories allow the drinking of alcohol by soldiers, the arguements we use as to why an official policy on abstinence is a good thing really don't stand up. Because it would mean there really is no such policy, even though we imagine there is. (and that was a really grammatically poor sentence!)

 

[Kizza]

I would never go to work under the influence of alcohol or other drugs and as far as I am concerned I am always on duty. "A soldier is a soldier and when on parade; an order is an order and must be obeyed." I signed my covenant in the presence of God, swore to it, and intend to follow it as closely as I possibly can. Period.

 

[Abiel]

I would never go to work under the influence of alcohol or other drugs and as far as I am concerned I am always on duty.

This is the best argument I have seen so far for the traditional Army position.


But the question remains: Is the Army position consistant through out the world, because I have been told otherwise, and am looking for evidence.

 

[coalfarm]

The International Salvation Army website has a copy of the articles of war displayed for all to see. In it the 'no drinking' clause is present. It would be safe, therefore, to assume that these articles are identical (apart from language) world wide.

 

[catlover]

As a visitor and non member of the Salvation Army I feel the need to comment.

What do people think of the Army's stance on alcohol. Is it time that it was reviewed or at least given a thorough debate at all levels?


No. After witnessing first hand what acholism does to people I really don't see the need for it.


Nobody could deny that 140 years ago it was very much needed, but has the world changed enough for it to be interpreted a little more loosely?

140 years ago maybe alchohol was needed as clean water was unheard of, but for today it isn't needed.

 

[coalfarm]

The reasons that Salvationists were teetotal one hundred years ago are the same as they are today...they have neither changed nor diminished in importance.

It's a non-issue as far as i'm concerned...if you can't fast from alcohol for the rest of your life then don't join the Army (if you can't fast alcohol for the rest of your life it may be an idol anyway!).

If you're called to the Army by Jesus then excersize some of that self-control that the Spirit has deposited in you and commit to not drink without complaining or grumbling.