Pub Theology by Bryan Berghoef is based in the belief that “good things happen when we sit down at the same table together and talk honestly about things that matter; frankly, having a beer does not hurt.” It is a book that speaks about things I value deeply: honesty about things that matter, openness and listening, and great craft beer.
Bryan’s story includes his upbringing in the church and in the Midwest, his education, and his beginning to see beyond the horizon of the tradition in which he was raised. With the support of a developing community of faith, he recognized the possibilities of listening to and learning from people with different backgrounds and perspectives.
Bryan describes the historical background for Pub Theology within the church, and how the first gathering took place on the evening of the day when his wife’s and his first daughter was born.
Bryan includes practical ideas and suggestions about what makes these gatherings important. He is honest about the challenges as well as the ways in which the gatherings have helped people with diverse viewpoints find new depth.
I look forward to applying the lessons he has learned to future stops on the Craft Brewery Pilgrimage.
Pub Theology is more than a manual on how to organize good discussions in a pub. Bryan writes with insight about the lessons he has learned by listening to people and how those lessons have strengthened his own faith.
Bryan writes, for example, about how Pub Theology discussions have taught him the value of releasing control, of facilitating the conversation rather than teaching. He also describes the deeper, more tangible ways he has learned to practice hospitality.
Bryan shares the lessons he has learned and the benefits he has gained as the Pub Theology discussions have revealed the sacred in the everyday.
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