Drinking with the Saints summary

Drinking and Spirituality

In Drinking with the Saints by Michael P. Foley, we are taken on a journey that combines two seemingly incompatible subjects: drinking and spirituality. The author introduces us to the concept of the liturgical year, which is the annual cycle of religious feasts and seasons observed in the Roman Catholic Church. He then proceeds to show us how to pair each of these feasts and seasons with an appropriate drink, be it wine, beer, or a cocktail.

For example, he suggests a glass of wine to celebrate the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a toast of beer for the Feast of St. Brigid of Ireland, or a cocktail for the Feast of St. James the Greater. Foley's approach is light-hearted, and he emphasizes the joy and conviviality inherent in these religious celebrations, thus making the connection between spirituality and alcohol seem natural and even enjoyable.

Drinking with the Saints

The bulk of Drinking with the Saints is a delightful and informative encyclopedic guide to the saints, each accompanied by a recommended drink. The author provides us with a brief biography of each saint, including their feast day and a list of appropriate drinks to enjoy in their honor. This section is not only entertaining but also educational, as we learn about the lives and contributions of a wide array of saints, from the well-known to the obscure.

For example, we learn that St. Dominic, the patron saint of astronomers, has his feast day on August 8th, and is associated with the Dominican habit of mixing water with wine. St. Thomas Aquinas, the patron saint of students, is honored with a beer on his feast day of January 28th, due to his reputed love for the brew. These fascinating tidbits help us to appreciate the saints in a new light and understand their relevance in the modern world.

Recipes and Rituals

As we journey through the liturgical year, Foley provides us with a collection of recipes for cocktails and drinks, each associated with a particular feast or season. He offers instructions for concoctions like the St. Dominic's Wine, the St. Brigid's Ale, and the St. James the Greater Cocktail. These recipes are not only delicious but also steeped in history and symbolism, adding an extra layer of meaning to the act of drinking.

Furthermore, the author discusses the ritual of toasting, a time-honored tradition that is deeply ingrained in many cultures. He provides us with guidelines on how to give a good toast, emphasizing the importance of sincerity, humor, and brevity. According to Foley, a well-crafted toast can elevate any drinking occasion into a memorable and meaningful experience.

The Sobering Side of Drinking

In the final section of Drinking with the Saints, Foley addresses the sobering side of drinking, acknowledging that alcohol abuse has been a significant issue throughout history. He emphasizes the importance of drinking responsibly and in moderation, and he encourages us to approach alcohol with a sense of reverence and appreciation, just as we would approach any other gift from God.

In conclusion, Drinking with the Saints is a unique and thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between spirituality and alcohol. It encourages us to savor life's moments by celebrating with a drink, while also reminding us to do so with mindfulness and respect. In doing so, Foley offers us a refreshing perspective that is both enlightening and enjoyable.