Now that December is here, we are counting the weeks and days until Christmas. For some of us, it's a religious holiday and time to get together with our loved ones. For other people, it's a time to get together and enjoy a couple of cold ones.

Get our free mobile app

So that brings up the question, can religion and beer mix? I say that it could, after all some hymns were actually written to drinking songs. However, that's not all that they have in common.

Mixing beer and religion

In the 1700s, the Paulaner monks of Germany brewed their own beer. They did this to help them get through a 40-day fast during Lent. The beer was heavy and malty so they could live on it for the whole fast.

They called it "Doppelbock" and the monks still do it today. At my church, we begin the new year with a 21 day fast and prayer. I wonder how it would go over if I asked Pastor Will if beer was allowed during the 21 days?

Arthur Guinness was a devout Christian. He created Guinness because he wanted to stop people from getting drunk on hard liquor. Maybe that's the reason why it takes so long for the head of the beer to calm down. It gives you a chance to sober up some.

Benjamin Franklin was a beer lover. What does this have to do with beer and religion? Franklin said that "beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy." In actuality, it's a misquote because he was really talking about wine.

The Greenbelt Festival in London is a Christian music and arts festival. They have a tent where people go to drink beer while they sing traditional hymns. It reminds me of the days that I used to host karaoke shows at various bars throughout the Southern Tier.

My favorite part of the night was at the end. NO, not because it was over but because one of the final songs that would be played/sung was "Amazing Grace." There is nothing like a Bible song at a bar. I loved how many people would sing along to the song and I was usually thanked for playing it.

Binghamton On Tap Tickets

Speaking of beer, religion and Christmas, here's a great gift for that special person in your life. Binghamton On Tap is back at the DoubleTree by Hilton on Water Street in Binghamton.

It's your chance to try over 100 different craft beers along with hard ciders and spiked seltzers. There will be three sessions including the VIP session which gets you four hours of tasting, a commemorative hat, and a food voucher.

This is a great gift to give to the beer lover in your life for Christmas. Get them now because the price goes up as time goes by.

If you weren't at Binghamton On Tap in September, this is what you missed. If you were there, see if you can find yourself or someone you know below.

FEEL THE EXCITEMENT: Binghamton On Tap 2021

Binghamton On Tap 2021 was a massive success. A new home for this year at the Broome County Fairgrounds, but the same level of fun and passion for good beer, food, and music as always. Take a look and see if you can spot yourself!

What Are the Signature Drinks From Every State?

More From 98.1 The Hawk