For those who can drink alcohol safely (that is, non-addictively), our norms should be moderation, attention to circumstances (such as driving, children’s needs), and keeping alcohol in perspective. For those who cannot drink safely because of an addictive reaction to alcohol, the only responsible norm is abstinence, sobriety. Leaders need to be aware that alcohol, even in moderate amounts, can impair judgment and response times. Drinking should be a social experience, not a part of business life or meetings where decisions are to be made.

Those are my understandings. Some Christians believe that any consumption of alcohol is wrong, a violation of God’s will.

—Tom Ehrich