Moderation is key: Scripture’s approach to drinking
Moderation is key: Scripture’s approach to drinking
Question: Why do certain Protestants regard drinking, smoking, and gambling as the pinnacle of wrongdoing? I assume they can lead to sin, but I am not familiar with a strong biblical focus on these issues. In reality, Jesus created wine during his initial miracle. What’s happening here? Why the fixation on minor concerns?
— John Parsons, Boston, MA
Answer: You are, indeed, accurate. The Scriptures do not explicitly tackle or denounce drinking, smoking, or gambling. Undoubtedly, drunkenness is criticized in various verses and forms, particularly in Proverbs. Smoking does not appear to have been commonly practiced during biblical times; and while gambling is mentioned, it does not appear to be a significant focus of biblical writings.
I suspect that the reason some Protestant denominations emphasized these transgressions is that these issues were significant in the American colonies during the time those denominations thrived. The American relationship with alcohol is quite troubled. Excessive drinking and opiate addiction posed a major challenge in America from the 1880s until the mid 20th century. Individuals, particularly immigrants, frequently endured harsh circumstances. Working environments were unpleasant, hours were extensive, and wages were inadequate. Numerous men from that era turned to alcohol as a means of escape. Upon receiving their paychecks, many of these men frequented bars, consuming alcohol and gambling away a significant portion of their earnings.
The temperance movement during this era was primarily spearheaded by women who were exhausted by the consequences of alcohol consumption on the men they cared for and the impact this had on households. Smoking and gambling were associated with drinking and consequently faced criticism too. These elements contributed to an increased focus on these vices.
In many instances, individuals with religious beliefs seek out Scriptures to support their claims. Nevertheless, as previously mentioned, leveraging Scripture to demonstrate that alcoholic beverages are inherently malevolent is a challenging endeavor that often leads to forced interpretations. For instance, some have contended that Jesus did not produce wine at the wedding celebration in Cana and that he utilized grape juice instead of wine during the Last Supper. However, this argument lacks credible backing. The Greek text unequivocally indicates that Jesus created a plentiful supply of wine for the wedding festivity and most certainly employed wine at the Last Supper, given that wine is an essential component of Passover meals.
The reality is that individuals consumed a considerable quantity of wine during Jesus’ era. It’s important to remember that water was not as clean as it can be today. Wine aided in digestion and eliminated certain harmful bacteria present in food and water. Therefore, St. Paul counsels Timothy, “Do not drink only water, but have a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your recurrent ailments” (1 Tim 5:23).
Thus, alcohol is a permitted enjoyment. However, similar to all permitted pleasures, moderation remains crucial. The Bible states that the Lord creates “wine to gladden their hearts” (Ps 104:15). While being uplifted is one aspect, becoming lethargic and having our judgment obscured to the point of acting foolishly is entirely different. Wine is a blessing, but only when consumed in moderation.
Confidential clerical supplications during the Eucharist
Question: I’ve observed, particularly during daily Mass, that the priest often whispers numerous prayers quietly to himself. What does this signify, and why doesn’t he recite them out loud for everyone to hear?
— Name withheld
Answer: There are several confidential or personal prayers that a priest is instructed to recite during Mass. One is uttered following the Gospel, others during the offertory, and some both prior to and after receiving Communion. The purpose of these prayers is to help the priest stay spiritually focused and engaged in his duties.
Regarding the ability of others to hear these prayers, that is not their intended aim. There are specific elements within the liturgy that are meant solely for the priest, a man who seeks prayer while called to unite with the Lord during his liturgical duties. In one of the prayers, the priest silently proclaims, “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, who, according to the will of the Father and the action of the Holy Spirit, through your Death brought life to the world, cleanse me by this, your most sacred Body and Blood, from all my sins and from all evil; keep me ever true to your commandments and never allow me to be separated from you.” This is a prayer that is both profound and essential for the priest to recite in silence and devotion. This is meant for him, a priest, but also a man in the presence of God, preparing to receive his Lord.
Msgr. Charles Pope is the pastor of Holy Comforter-St. Cyprian in Washington, D.C., and writes for the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. at blog.adw.org. Send questions to msgrpope@osv.com.
