Alcohol

Our way of life – The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church and Alcohol

Just like the rest of society, members of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church make a personal choice regarding alcohol consumption—some choose to drink alcohol, while others will choose abstinence from alcohol.

Like millions of Christians around the world, during the Lord’s Supper, or Communion, members of our Church will take a small piece of bread and a sip of wine from the same cup.

Aside from this, the Church does not generally provide any meals or drinks at Church services, nor does it provide alcohol to anyone who is not of legal drinking age.

Personal responsibility

We are often asked, “Do Plymouth Brethren drink a lot?”  The simple answer is that much like the rest of society, alcohol consumption is a personal choice for members of our Church.

As with many aspects of our Church, emphasis is placed on personal responsibility, promoting responsible choices and moderation, within a supportive community which prioritises spiritual integrity and personal well-being

Community and fellowship

Members of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church make a commitment to only eat and drink with those with whom we celebrate the Lord’s Supper.

We celebrate the Lord’s Supper every Sunday in small groups. This solemn and sacred occasion of fellowship together is a commitment to one another to seek to live a life of purity, in line with scripture.

Just as sharing a meal is an act of fellowship, so too is sharing a drink. So as part of this commitment, we do not consume alcohol socially with those outside our Church.

Healthy community environment

Within our Community, Sunday (Lord’s Day) is regarded as a special day, beginning with the Lord’s Supper (Holy Communion) at local churches.

The day is dedicated to Bible readings, Gospel preachings and study of the Word of God. On this day, we welcome fellow Brethren into our homes for lunch and evening meals, during which alcohol may be served to guests.

At church events, alcohol is never served to children or anyone not of legal drinking age.

Family gatherings

Family is central to the lives of members of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church. Naturally, Brethren families spend a lot of time with other Brethren families – playing music and singing, cooking together and enjoying outdoor activities.

As with families in wider society, some members may choose to enjoy alcohol responsibly on these occasions.

Alcohol in the Bible

Within our community, members are encouraged to support one another in making responsible choices which align with the values of our Church.

Biblical teachings suggest that alcohol can bring joy when used responsibly. Psalm 104:14-15 states: “He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate— bringing forth food from the earth: wine that gladdens human hearts, oil to make their faces shine, and bread that sustains their hearts.”