Did you know the Catholic Church has an official blessing for beer?
In the 1964 edition of the Rituale Romanum, one of the Church’s official books of rituals, there is a section with “Blessings of things designated for ordinary use.”
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Among the many rituals listed, you can find special blessings for pastries, medicine, cheese, fire, seeds, airplanes, and more – including beer.
Why bless beer? Because it is a part of God’s good creation and a wonderful gift for human enjoyment!
Ever since Jesus turned water into wine at the marriage at Cana (John 2), the Catholic Church has supported the enjoyment of alcohol – as long as it is done responsibly with moderation.
Here’s the blessing for beer:
P: Our help is in the name of the Lord.
All: Who made heaven and earth.
P: The Lord be with you.
All: May He also be with you.
Let us pray.
Lord, bless + this creature, beer, which by your kindness and power has been produced from kernels of grain, and let it be a healthful drink for mankind. Grant that whoever drinks it with thanksgiving to your holy name may find it a help in body and in soul; through Christ our Lord. All: Amen.
It is sprinkled with holy water.
Do you know of any other cool Catholic rituals that most people don’t know about? Share in the comments!
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