Theology on Tap

Last night I attended Theology on Tap at Claim Jumper in Fountain Valley.  For those not familiar with the program, it’s a gathering composed of young Catholics.  We usually meet at a bar or a restaurant (that serves alcoholic beverages) and we mingle with other Catholics while enjoying a glass or two of our preferred beer.  Then we come together to listen to a lecture on current topics of theology or religion usually given by a notable speaker.  Basically it’s a fun, social time with likeminded people.

My partners in crime.

I am a newbie, since I only heard of the affair in August (of last year) when I transferred parishes my old parish didn’t offer this type of event and I have been in attendance every time it’s offered.  It’s truly quite an enjoyable arrangement you meet a lot of cool people, enjoy drinks and good food and then you get soul food -literally.

Yum, yum!

Last nights' topic was on forgiveness...  When I was an agnostic, I had a lot of stored vengeance for those who hurt me and I thought that holding on to that resentment made me the tough one, but as I delved into my Christian faith I discovered the freedom that forgiveness gives.  I have peace because (now) I am able to release the filth that holding on to grudges creates. I am able to forgive! The idea that really resonated last night was that we all have been forgiven already for all of our sins (past, present and future) and God can’t love us more than He does at this moment.  WOW! Now that’s perfect love… I mean how many of us can truly claim to have forgiven others for future hurts they will cause?  It’s hard enough forgiving for past or even present pains, but future… Only Papa Diosito! (smile)

Our speaker was John LaBriola (he’s one of our parishioners) he’s written various books and is the founder of Catholic Family Foundation.  He’s spoken at a few of our Theology on Tap events and always breaks down really tough subjects making them simple yet current for his audience.  I invite you to come to the next meeting with me, I promise you will have a great time!  

Cheers!