John Wesley and Guinness Stout: the connection

I feel as though I should preface this revelation by citing Paragraph 162. III. L. of the 2008 Book of Discipline:

We affirm our long-standing support of abstinence from alcohol as a faithful witness to God’s liberating and redeeming love for persons. We support abstinence from the use of any illegal drugs. Since the use of illegal drugs, as well as illegal and problematic use of alcohol, is a major factor in crime, disease, death, and family dysfunction, we support educational programs as well as other prevention strategies encouraging abstinence from illegal drug use and, with regard to those who choose to consume alcoholic beverages, judicious use with deliberate and intentional restraint, with Scripture as a guide.

Okay, now that we're clear on that, here's the cool part: One of the many people who heard John Wesley preach was Arthur Guinness, founder of the brewery that bears his name. It seems that Wesley's perspective helped shape the young man's business practices. From a blog entry by USA Today columnist Stephen Mansfield:

This rising entrepreneur hears and allows Wesley's words to frame a vision for his fledgling company: a vision for producing wealth through brewing excellence and then for using that wealth to serve the downtrodden and the poor.

I just might have to raise a glass to Wesley and Guinness tonight.

(Hat tip: Jennifer Rodia, via Twitter)

Comments

[revjohnf]

What a novel concept: a brewer--or anyone--who understands his or her purpose in business to be providing for the poor and downtrodden, instead of creating massive wealth for said entrepreneur. That certainly is what Wesley did with his wealth.

This revelation--along with the fact that, as I was reading this blog, my shuffle started playing a set of Irish Trad--may just help me overcome my distaste for stout. Maybe.

In any case, ... Cheers!

[Wayne]

I'll drink to that!