Wednesday, November 3, 2010 | Last Updated Thursday, August 11, 2011 03:23 Pacific/Honolulu

Alcohol Policy

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At the recommendation of the Resolutions Committee of the 42nd Annual Meeting of the Diocesan Convention, meeting October 30, 2010, Bishop Robert Fitzpatrick reminds all congregations of the expectation to follow the alcohol policy adopted by the Convention at its 19th Annual Meeting in 1987:

Alcohol Policy in the Episcopal Diocese of Hawai'i

As adopted at the 19th Annual Meeting of the Convention, 1987

"BE IT RESOLVED.

That the Episcopal Church in Hawai'i adopt the following as a policy on the use of alcohol at church functions:

1.  When alcoholic beverages are provided at a church sponsored activity, non-alcoholic beverages must also be provided, in sufficient quantity and attractively displayed.

2.  Any food or beverage containing alcohol must be clearly labeled.

3.  Alcoholic beverages or food containing alcohol should not be used to advertise or promote attendance at any church function.

4.  Alcohol is not to be served prior to or during any church-related business meeting or at youth functions.

5.  Alcohol should be maintained under the control of a responsible adult."

In addition, the Resolutions Committee in 2010 urged the Bishop to ask the Standing Committee to undertake a comprehensive review of the policy regarding drugs and alcohol, and that a revised policy needs to address issues of alcohol and drug abuse for our employees and clergy, by offering evaluations and treatment.

Congregations and clergy are also referred to an article about alcohol in churches for their consideration.