The related dysfunctional behavior will be unlikely to change if the disease is left untreated. While assessment, intervention and treatment are necessary for chemically dependent persons, they are more likely to recover if they become part of a life-changing fellowship. Local congregations, as proclaimers of the healing power of the gospel of Jesus Christ, can be such life-changing fellowships for chemically dependent persons, and their families, if they recognize that their ministry is to sick people. The person, but not the behavior, must be accepted. Identify and refer to resources in the community such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Anon, Alateen and Narcotics Anonymous and wherever possible make church facilities available to such groups.
Clergy are frequently the first persons whose help is sought when something iswrong in the family.
Teach pastoral care of families dealing with dependencies. Since alcoholism and other chemical dependencies are deeply embedded in our society and touch all facets of our common life, governmental action will also be required to deal with the problem. Mobilize our church bodies to assist teenagers in resisting the peer pressure that seeks to draw them into the use of alcohol and other addictive drugs. Direct health care resources toward the prevention of diseases and the maintenance of health as well as toward the treatment of illness. The right to human dignity, to be respected and treated as a person.