Theology on Tap: Taking Theology into the ‘Real’ World

by Erin Carelse · Published January 24, 2018 · Updated January 23, 2018

The core Theology on Tap team is seen with Cardinal Wilfrid Napier. (From left) Nicolas de Freitas, Dr Andrea Juan, Matthew Sprong, Cardinal Napier, Nikita Turk and Liam Smithers. Team member Caroline Message is not pictured. (Photo: Maxine Noel Photography)

A group of young adults in the greater Durban area have taken Catholic theology to the bars, quite literally. Starting in 2016, Theology on Tap has hosted 15 talks on theological topics that are important, and of interest, to young Catholic adults today.

The monthly talks attract more than 70 people who are eager to learn more about the faith and meet other young adults.

“As the name suggests, these talks are usually held in bars, pubs and restaurants. They are targeted at, but not limited to, young Catholic adults,” said Theology on Tap member Dr Andrea Juan.

Why Meet in a Pub?

“The purpose of using a pub or restaurant is twofold: often people feel more relaxed in a casual atmosphere than at church, and secondly, it takes the discussion of Church and theology outside the church and into the local, ‘real’ world,” she said.

“Spiritually, Theology on Tap aims to promote the development of faith, as one method of learning more about Catholicism and its theology,” Dr Juan said.

“Evangelically, the aim is to take the teaching of Catholicism outside of the Church into the community.

“Socially, the aim is to provide an opportunity for people to meet others and develop relationships with fellow parishioners,” she said.

These aims are encapsulated by the group’s motto: “Faith, fellowship and food.”

Topics of Discussion

Topics have included “The Church said what?!” (a discussion of the Catholic Church’s most controversial teachings, led by Mgr Paul Nadal); “An eye for an eye” (which looked at social justice, led by theologian Steven Estes from Lifeteen International); and “Harlots and horsemen” (which unpacked the book of Revelation, led by Fr Brett Williams).

Over 120 people attended a talk by Cardinal Wilfrid Napier, titled “What the hell?!?”, in which the cardinal explained “the four last things” and offered firsthand accounts of demonic possession.

All are welcome to attend the events, which are posted on the Theology on Tap KZN Facebook page.

The next talk will be on February 22 by Sr Cathy Murugan.

For more information contact Liam Smithers on 073 252 7489 or go to the Theology on Tap KZN Facebook page.