Every year, many people participate in something called “Dry January,” a recent trend where people give up drinking for the month. For some, it’s a kind of post-holiday detox; for others, it’s an opportunity to rethink their relationship with alcohol generally.

The Salvation Army has long held a sober stance on alcohol. But where does that position come from? And how is it still relevant today? 

In this episode, two Salvationists share their perspectives on the topic. The first is Dr. Adrian Bonner, who joins us from the United Kingdom, where he is a professor and long-term academic researcher into alcohol and society. Along with his academic work, Adrian is a consultant providing health-related support for The Salvation Army’s social services in the UK.

We also chat with Canadian Salvationist Dr. Jim Read, who will offer his perspective on the Army’s International Positional Statement on Alcohol in Society. Jim was part of the group that created this statement in 2015, and he shares how it came together—and what he hopes other Salvationists will take away from it.

Further Reading and Resources:

The Army's International Positional Statement on Alcohol in Society

Articles and book chapters on this topic by Professor Adrian Bonner

In Darkest England, and the Way Out by William Booth