NATASHA WINKLER
For many women of faith, the “shame of the secret” is often heavier than the struggle itself. Linda’s upcoming masterclass, Sober Curious Older Women of Faith, shines a much-needed light into a corner of the sanctuary that often stays dim: the quiet, repetitive cycle of nightly wine and morning regret among women over 40.
In an era where “Wine Mom” culture has matured into “Chardonnay Grandma” normalcy, the line between social relaxation and a spiritual weight can become incredibly thin. What makes this event noteworthy isn’t just the topic, but the tone. By framing the conversation as “sober curious” and “mindful,” it lowers the barrier to entry for those who aren’t ready for a clinical label but know, deep down, that their spiritual vibrance is being dampened by a glass.
Why This Matters Now
Midlife brings a unique cocktail of stressors, empty nests, aging parents, and shifting identities. For the woman of faith, these challenges are often met with the pressure to “have it together” for her community. This approach offers:
- Evidence-Informed Grace: Merging practical tools to manage cravings with Biblical identity.
- Safety in Numbers: Breaking the isolation that suggests “I’m the only Christian woman struggling with this.”
- A Low-Pressure Entry: A one-hour masterclass is a gentle invitation compared to the daunting prospect of a lifetime commitment.
A Necessary Pivot
We often treat alcohol struggle as a moral failing or a clinical disease, but rarely as a thirst for something deeper. This masterclass views sobriety not as a restrictive “thou shalt not,” but as an expansive “yes” to God’s purpose. Whether you are the one quietly counting your drinks or you know a sister in the pews who is, this event is a reminder that freedom doesn’t require perfection—just the courage to be honest.
Event Details:
- What: Sober Curious Older Women of Faith Masterclass
- When: Thursday, March 12 | 7:00 pm Central
- Where: Online via Zoom, hosted by Linda Larson Schlitz
About the Author
