I passed the chapel this morning and saw Pastor Steve preparing the Communion cups. I try to avoid politics and religion topics due to the wide diversity of interests here at Trinity View.
I did have a flashback, though, to my time as a young altar boy. One of our tasks was to fill cruets with water and wine to prepare for the consecration. Occasionally, despite the risk of sacrilege, we would sniff the wine and even take a sip. I don’t recall particularly enjoying any of it except the excitement of the activity!
A few years later I found myself in a minor seminary intent for the priesthood. In the cloistered environment, there were about 20 priests for faculty and administration, and it was a privilege to serve in the priests’ dining room. Being in this German-origin order, the priests enjoyed their beer, and occasionally, although it was verboten, we seminarians would finish any un-poured beer.
I gave up early on the clerical life, but over the years I have enjoyed the spirits in various forms and have found myself back in my hometown, Asheville, that is now known as “Beer City USA” with a wonderful selection of local breweries and craft beers.
And then, late in life, I was fortunate to have found Trinity View, elder housing operated by Lutheran Services Carolinas.
Turns our, Martin Luther, a German, enjoyed his beer. In fact, his wife was a brewer and plied her craft to please his taste. Germany is about half and half Lutheran and Catholic today and both like their beer. You certainly have heard of the great German beers.
So it all comes together for me. Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays we have a regular happy hour with beer and wine and maybe a mixed drink like “Margarita Monday.” What a fun community we have here, and nobody worries about how you worship.
We’re all in this together. Can I get an “Amen?”
