Release #055 {2919} April 25, 1996
DENVER (UMNS) -- The 1996 General Conference voted April 25 to continue the United Methodist Special Program on Substance Abuse and Related Violence.
Mandated in 1992, this program coordinates various drug and alcohol education and prevention initiatives across the denomination.
In recommending continuation, supporters asked that General Conference maintain funding at the current level of $360,000 a year. They also proposed that participating boards and agencies continue their financial and in-kind contributions.
During deliberations, the Rev. Rolf Lindell of Sweden asked that the drug-and-alcohol program be extended to the Baltic nations to help counter an "acute drug and alcohol crisis."
The General Conference voted 812-104 to continue the program and extend it to Northern Europe.
Lindell asked that the church commit $510,000 over the next four years for a "multi- faceted" anti-substance-abuse initiative in Northern Europe.
When the question of a source for the additional funds arose, the Rev. Stephen Drachler, Harrisburg, Pa., moved that the money be taken from the World Service Contingency Fund administered by the General Council on Ministries.
"Its a matter of justice and fairness to our brothers and sisters across the ocean that we approve this proposal," he said.
-- Linda Green
If you want to know how to get more information about this story, call InfoServ at 1-800/251-8140.