An ode to beer by St Brigid

There is a 10th century poem, attributed to Brigid herself, that speaks of giving "a lake of beer to God." This wonderful poem has a Franciscan feel to it - with both its earthy, human quality and delight in God.

I'd like to give a lake of beer to God.
I'd love the heavenly
Host to be tippling there
For all eternity.

I'd love the men of Heaven to live with me,
To dance and sing.
If they wanted, I'd put at their disposal
Vats of suffering.

White cups of love I'd give them
With a heart and a half;
Sweet pitchers of mercy I'd offer
To every man.

I'd make Heaven a cheerful spot
Because the happy heart is true.
I'd make the men contented for their own sake.
I'd like Jesus to love me too.

I'd like the people of heaven to gather
From all the parishes around.
I'd give a special welcome to the women,
The three Marys of great renown.

I'd sit with the men, the women and God
There by the lake of beer.
We'd be drinking good health forever
And every drop would be a prayer.

Franciscan Pondering

So this is fun Catholic stuff, but St. Brigid of Kildare who's feast is February 1st died in the year of our Lord 525, so I'm not sure if the attribution is correct.  I didn't find the year at this helpful article but maybe the numberings off, the poem is definitely attributed to her. 

This also reminded me of our old post: Is there beer in heaven?

I am still of the opinion of the Germans. 

Photo 

HT Angela