Angeli et amici: In festo S. Augustini Episcopi et Confessori​s et Ecclesiae Doctoris

(It seems our correspondent Mr. Screwtape is a few days late with this posting. Perhaps researching this contribution in the Kneipen of the East Village and the Lower East Side proved too strenuous: Burp Castle, Lorelei, Zum Schneider etc.)

Down one of the side streets of the quaint Manhattan neighborhood one grew up in formerly known as Kleindeutschland and now referred to as the East Village is an interesting drinking establishment which claims to be “operated by the Brewist Monks since 1022 A.D.” called “Burp Castle”.

Saint Augustine of Hippo, illustrious Doctor of the Church, has the added notable notoriety of being classified the patron saint of brewers. (How about the Saint of Suds? or the Apostle of Ale? Okay please put down that very heavy stein.) Among the particularly pious the following may serve as an adequate explanation of this dubious distinction: “St. Augustine of Hippo is the patron of brewers because of his conversion from a former life of loose living, which included parties, entertainment, and worldly ambitions. His complete turnaround and conversion has been an inspiration to many who struggle with a particular vice or habit they long to break.” Perhaps a more properly historical outlook may be summarized thusly: “Centuries ago beer was the daily drink of the people, both because plain water was often polluted and due to beer’s inexpensive, nourishing qualities. Monks brewed beer for themselves as a safe source of hearty sustenance. Monk’s meals were frugal at best, particularly during fast periods. However, consumption of liquids did not break the fast. Without widespread hotel chains, monasteries served as inns for travelers who shared the monk’s provisions, especially their robust, sustaining beers. Eventually, the monks were able to also sell their beers at pubs called klosterschenken, and a flourishing trade developed.” Being one of the oldest monastic rules in the Church and followed by many religious houses in the Middle Ages (especially in Germany) the Rule of Saint Augustine may have contributed to the one-time wayward son of Saint Monica achieving an amusing avocation as Bishop of brewers.

But as a serious scholar it is indubitably incumbent upon one to piously pursue this religious research. >BURP!<

Mr. Screwtape