Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States
www.suscopts.org
   A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z

What is the Church’s view on drinking in moderation. There was an Orthodox bishop with his diocesan priests enjoying a glass of wine at dinner. I have never seen a Coptic priest or bishop having a glass of wine or beer. I have also seen catholic priests enjoy a glass of beer watching TV and spending time with other priests. Also, there was a video of a recent Catholic pope drinking and enjoying a glass of German beer with other bishops. If it is ok to drink in moderation, why do we never see priests drinking wine at a dinner? 

We must diligently adhere to the four rules set by St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:23: "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify."
 
Everything is lawful but not everything:
- is edifying
- does not control me
- does not offend others
- is befitting 

Even if we can control ourselves, but somebody else watched us, imitated us, and became an addict because of us, then we offended him. St. Paul states that if eating meat (drinking wine) offends my brother, I will not eat meat (drink wine), forever (see 1 Corinthians 8:13).
 
The consumption of alcohol is generally not approved nor encouraged for spiritual reasons. This is not part of our conservative, Christian culture. Some cultures are raised in this atmosphere in which wine or beer with a meal is normal. The Egyptian culture, which is the origin of the Coptic Orthodox Church, does not engage in this social custom. You may have witnessed some Catholic priests consuming beer or other alcoholic beverages, seeming to enjoy it, but beware because there are serious issues with alcoholism amongst some Catholic priests. Though there are many stressors and intense pressure on clergy, turning to wine or beer is not the solution to wind down, and has probably contributing to the escalating use of alcohol in this community.
 
Wine in itself is not a sin, especially for medicinal purposes, but nowadays, there are much better alternatives. However, wine and beer are often consumed as cocktails and can lead to other mixed drinks and stronger liquor. Wine is mentioned several times in the Holy Scripture, foremost for ecclesiastical purposes, as a refreshment at festive events in which it is produced by fermentation of fruit without added alcohol, and for medicinal purposes. The Bible strictly cautions against drunkenness. How can the consumption of alcohol be moderately regulated in a modest, Christian culture? When is the appropriate age to hand your child a glass or two of wine or beer? What are the repercussions of this unproductive habit? Too many risks to become immersed into this aspect of the western culture.
Home | Ask A Question | Search Q&A