title: The church and prevention of alcoholism.
abstract: The task of the church is to join a coalition for the improvement of community resources for the alcoholic through legislation and appropriation of funds; to train a task force of clergymen and lay counselors who are able to assist mental health professionals and A. A. members; and to communicate the Word of Reconciliation to those who are hungering and thirsting for the right life. We are able to help the alcoholic as he discovers new values and experiences without compulsive drinking. Clinebell summarizes the ministry of the church to the alcoholic when he points out: "The most important thing a congregation must give a recovering alcoholic is a sense of acceptance in the fellowship. Such direct involvement in helping deeply troubled people forces a congregation to test the reality of its dedication to loving God and neighbor."(42) May God help the church to be the church for the alcoholic.
authors.affiliation: Makiki Christian Couseling Center, Honolulu.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Lum