Do Mormons drink?
Mormons, more properly referred to as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, believe they are divinely counseled not to drink alcohol, including beer and wine. In 1833, Church prophet Joseph Smith received a revelation from God regarding health, known as the Word of Wisdom (see Doctrine and Covenenants 89). This revelation describes which foods and drinks are good for the body and which substances should be avoided. It says that if anyone "drinketh wine or strong drink among you, behold it is not good," and states further, "strong drinks are not for the belly."
The Word of Wisdom includes an exception for sacramental wine that is, "of your own make." However, early in the Church's history wine was officially replaced with water for use in the sacrament.
As with all of God's commandments, Latter-day Saints are free to choose whether or not they drink alcohol. However, to qualify for baptism and temple worship, they must refrain from drinking alcohol, as well as live all other aspects of the Word of Wisdom. Latter-day Saints believe obedience to this revelation will result in blessings of increased physical and spiritual well-being.
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