Mark A. Hadley
October 22nd, 2008

The Sydney Anglican Synod has joined the fight against binge drinking and alcohol related violence in New South Wales.

Last night the Synod voted overwhelmingly to pass a motion aimed at offering support to politicians and law enforcement officials acting to curb ‘problems brought on by alcohol abuse.’

The mover of the motion, the Rev Zac Veron, told representatives that a community-wide desire for change was emerging and Sydney Anglicans should do everything in their power to encourage the pace of reform.

“Let us send them a strong message of support not to take their foot off this accelerator,” he said.

The motion records Synod’s regret for the increasing practice of binge drinking, the damage caused to lives and property by alcohol-fuelled violence, and the negative effects for police officers, hospitals, drivers and families.

The motion also underlines the Bible’s teaching in relation to alcohol, particularly that it is a duty of every Christian to avoid drunkenness and have a care as to the way their drinking affects other people.

“Alcohol is part of God’s good creation,” the seconder of the motion, Lachlan Bryant told Synod.

“Scripture says that we are to only exercise our rights only after we have considered those around us and how [our actions] may cause others to stumble.”

Debate sharpens support

Two successful amendments to the bill emphasised the destructive role alcohol can play in causing carnage on the roads and harm in families.

A further amendment by the Rev Chris Albany commended action taken to curb the introduction of 24 hour/seven-day trading for alcohol outlets.

A final amendment by the Rev Phil Wheeler encouraged Christian pastors and other leaders and teachers to seek to understand and engage in sensitive ministry with those people struggling to overcome the scourge of alcohol addiction.

In introducing the motion, Mr Veron noted that he realised opinions on alcohol ranged from moderation to abstinence, and there were a wide range of approaches represented at Synod.

“However we are united on one thing: alcohol abuse is evil and brings evil consequences,” he concluded.