Date: October 21, 2021
Learning to live life in healthy and balanced ways is a key goal of discipleship. One area the student handbook does address is the realm of drugs and alcohol. It is appropriate from time to time to remind the community of where we stand on these issues.
On illegal drugs, we are completely clear. We have a zero-tolerance policy. Any person using drugs will be asked to leave the community.
On cigarettes, vaping, and alcohol, we are more nuanced. With respect to cigarettes and vaping, we have certain rules (some by law – for example, outside buildings and a certain distance away). In respect to alcohol, which rightly has generated attention as an important area of community discussion, we insist on “responsible drinking” and respect for “all persons in recovery.” Every social event must have attractive non-alcoholic options. (It is perfectly possible to have a fabulous time and not serve any alcohol.) Everyone must remember that it is illegal to consume alcohol and drive. And all of us must ensure that we do not drink so much that we become inappropriate with our neighbor.
I am delighted that we have scheduled a Flock Talk on October 28 at 7:30 p.m. in The Flamingo to explore these issues. And I invite everyone to attend. This is a real opportunity to think deeply about this aspect of our shared life.
Remember discipleship of Jesus Christ is a 24/7 privilege. There are no moments when we are not disciples. We need to learn, as disciples, appropriate ways of living. This is an important part of seminary.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and PresidentÂ