Holy hops: Anglican priest's beer blessing ritual sparks online debate

An Anglican Church priest has stirred debate after a video of him blessing alcohol went viral, sending social media into a frenzy.

In the clip, Fr Thapelo Masemola, dressed in vestments, stands before several brands of beer and recites a prepared prayer.

In his prayer, Masemola is heard saying, "The Lord be with you. Today we gather in good humour and also in profound thanksgiving to bless this most ancient and human gift – beer!"

"The church in its wisdom has always recognised that the fruits of the earth and the works of human hands are not mere commodities but signs of God's providence.

"In blessing beer, we recall that even ordinary pleasures – bread and wine, yeast, and yes, beer – can become vessels of grace when received with gratitude. This prayer, venerable in its Latin form, reminds us that beer is made from the fat of the grain, the humble barley, and wheat, which God has caused to grow.

"Like the Eucharist bread and wine, rises from the cooperation of all of the created order. From human craftsmanship as well. It nourishes community, it refreshes the weary, and when taken in moderation, it fosters fellowship and joy.

"The International Buy a Priest a Beer Day, which we celebrate today, is a light-hearted tradition in its origin, yet it points to something deeply Christian, the communion of the church. So to share a pint is to share a life, to sit with one another without pretence and to recognise in laughter and friendship -  the goodness of God.

"Even our priests, tasked with the cura animarum (cure of souls), need moments of fellowship and refreshment in such times."

The video ends with Masemola blessing those in attendance, prompting a woman to ask if ululation was allowed. His quick reply: “Ululate.” A group of women is heard ululating as the priest breaks into a smile.

Reacting to the video, Bishop Nkosinathi Ndwandwe, head of the Natal Diocese, said he had not seen it but noted that the church “is made up of different people who do things differently.”

He emphasised that Scripture does not forbid alcohol, but warned against excess.

“The problem starts when you consume without self-restraint and self-respect. We will never allow someone to consume alcohol before coming to church,” Ndwandwe said.

Online reactions were sharply divided. One user asked, “Where are the congregants?”

Another fumed, “This is not funny; Christianity is not a joke.”

Others were supportive, with one posting, “Amen, my priest!”

It turns out, International Buy a Priest a Beer Day, is an unofficial tradition, observed on September 9, to take out a priest or any other spiritual leader, for a beer or non-alcoholic beverage, or meal to show appreciation for their ministry. The appreciation can also come in the form of prayer, gift or a thank you note.
SUNDAY TRIBUNE