WHO ARE THE PIONEERS?

The Pioneer Total Abstinence Association of the Sacred Heart was founded in Ireland in 1898 by Father James Cullen, S.J.

For more than a century, Pioneers have made a personal commitment to abstain from alcohol and to offer that commitment as a prayer and sacrifice for those whose lives are affected by alcohol.

At the heart of the Pioneer movement is not simply abstinence, but prayer, sacrifice, service, and concern for others.

THE PIONEER COMMITMENT

Pioneers make a personal commitment to total abstinence from alcoholic drink and seek to live that commitment in the spirit of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

The Pioneer tradition recognizes the suffering that alcohol can cause in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Through their own abstinence, Pioneers offer prayer and sacrifice for those struggling with alcohol and for their families.

The Pioneer movement also provides opportunities for those who wish to make a temporary commitment to abstinence.

THE CLEVELAND PIONEERS

The Pioneer tradition has deep roots in Cleveland and in our Irish Catholic community.

The Cleveland Pioneer Total Abstinence Association continues that tradition today by bringing Pioneers together for prayer, fellowship, Masses, meetings, and community events.

As we look to the future, we also hope to preserve the history and stories of the Pioneers in Cleveland while introducing the spiritual mission of the Association to a new generation.

A TRADITION WORTH CONTINUING

The world has changed considerably since the Pioneers were founded in 1898, but the need for prayer, sacrifice, fellowship, and support for those affected by alcohol has not disappeared.

The Pioneer pledge is a quiet personal commitment made for ourselves and for others.