When the Church Leaves the Building: Theology on Tap at St. John’s in Sonora

When the Church Leaves the Building

St. John’s Episcopal Church in Sonora is building relationships and connections through Theology on Tap, a casual once a month Christian Formation gathering, that feeds the soul through food, beverages, and conversation. Each session includes a lesson, based on scripture, and spans different formats and topics including Bible Triva, How Religious Art Can Move People, and Blessings in the Bible.

The concept of Theology on Tap was borne during the period of transition following Covid when the Rev. Susan Burnham, serving as Assistant Rector during that time at St. George Episcopal Church and School in San Antonio, was exploring ways to engage the congregation and re-invigorate in-person Christian Formation.

Conceived by Burnham, Theology on Tap was inspired by a Roman Catholic program for Young Adults.  During the pandemic, Burnham was channel surfing when a program on the Catholic Channel caught her attention.  She noticed there was a priest in a bar talking with the customers and was intrigued by the engaging conversations that were taking place. She thought “This seems like the type of program that might have universal appeal to adults”. So began the first of a series of gatherings that grew into a program that has taken root in multiple diocesan communities.

That first event was held at a locally owned pub in San Antonio.  Through word of mouth and social media, participation grew, and it became a regular Christian Formation gathering.

As Burnham transitioned into her role as Rector at St. John’s, she determined that Theology on Tap would be a good program to replicate in the small-town community of Sonora. Unlike San Antonio, Sonora does not have any sports bars or pubs so Burnham decided she would host the gatherings at the Rectory, opening her home on the 1^st Tuesday of each month from 5-6:30 p.m.  Theology on Tap is open to the public and is an interdenominational event. Attendance varies between 20-40 people each month and includes both Episcopalians and individuals from other churches in the community. Guest speakers, such as the Rev. Michael Michie, Rector at St. Thomas Episcopal Church and School in San Antonio, have been featured at Theology on Tap dinners.

“Tap” includes responsible consumption of alcoholic beverages as well as mocktails and other non-alcoholic beverages. Burnham and a few designated cooks prepare the main entree while others contribute side dishes. Meals are themed according to the season or lesson.  September’s Back to the Ballpark theme will feature hot dogs on the grill, queso, nachos, chili, funnel cake, corn dogs, big pretzels, etc. December’s gathering, Holiday Sweets and Treats, is a favorite event. St. George organist and former San Antonio Symphony member, Vivian Spy, plays piano, with Burnham on Drums, and they play Classic Christmas Favorites and Jazz to compliment the lesson, Theology of Hymns.

Burnham believes that getting outside the church walls through Christian Formation events such as Theology on Tap are a way to share God’s Word in non-traditional settings that are inclusive and foster a sense of belonging. She is available to answer any questions for those interested in launching Theology on Tap in their community and may be contacted at revsusanstjonsonora@gmail.com. To download a sample lesson, click here.

Participants offered glowing reviews for Theology on Tap (TOT), sharing:

Theology on Tap provides us with food for our souls as well as tasty meals.    I enjoy the casual get together with church friends. -Beth Wallace

I like how people from all denominations are welcomed and feel comfortable joining in on our discussions. -Glenda Barton

There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend you can foster deeper understanding and personal growth with through shared discussion.  Theology on Tap is a friend, breaking bread together, and fostering our faith. -Shanna Castro

Relaxing atmosphere in Rev Susan’s house with wonderful homemade margaritas and always a thought provoking theology discussion. One of my favorites was the discussion on our favorite Saints. -Anita Hudson

TOT is very special because it is held in the comfort of a home….our rectory!! Thank you Susan+ for sharing your home! -Mary Adele Balch

What makes TOT special is its brutal honesty. No robes, no pews— just folks wrestling with truth over tacos, beer, and wine. -Brady Johnson

TOT is a special gathering with few boundaries. The community and all churches are welcomed. TOT is the modern version of an evening with JESUS; food, drink, music, friends and lots of spiritual conversations! -Espy Whitehead

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