Faith formation

In an age where religious practice often seems to be confined to traditional spaces, Theology on Tap (ToT) offers a refreshing and contemporary approach to spiritual engagement. But what many parishes are looking for is a dynamic setting to engage adults to explore, question and grow in their faith in a relaxed, informal atmosphere.

Origins and evolution

The concept of Theology on Tap began in the early 1980s in Chicago as an initiative by the Archdiocese of Chicago to address the growing disengagement of young adults from the Church after their graduation from college. The idea was simple yet revolutionary: bring together young adults in a casual environment—often a bar or restaurant setting—and engage them in discussions about faith and spirituality. The setting of a local bar was chosen intentionally to create a comfortable and non-intimidating space where people could speak openly and freely.

The success of the program quickly led to its adoption by other dioceses and faith communities across the United States and beyond. Today, Theology on Tap events can be found in cities around the world, adapting to local cultures while maintaining the core principle of fostering meaningful dialogue about faith.

Last fall, ToT began at Bismarck’s Church of Saint Anne’s. Father Kregg Hochhalter, pastor there, said the idea was born from two things: learning and community. There’s the desire to offer an opportunity for deeper learning of the Catholic faith all within the environment of friendship. 

“Both are important in that Our Lord gave us our faith in friendship,” Father said. “Although Jesus spoke to the masses, it all started with Him encountering men and women on a personal level during His earthly ministry. Faith really blossoms when surrounded by friends and family.”

The format

Typically, a Theology on Tap event involves a featured speaker—often a pastor or other religious leader—who presents on a topic relevant to contemporary issues or traditional teachings. The presentation is usually followed by a Q&A session, allowing participants to ask questions and engage in discussion. The informal setting of a bar or a home where refreshments are served encourages a relaxed atmosphere, which can make theological discussions feel more accessible and less intimidating.

Father Hochhalter and Fr. Paul Gardner, parochial vicar at Saint Anne’s, alternate as the event speaker. Last fall, there were four different ToT evenings offered—two for men and two for women.

“We noticed there are a lot of events for couples and different catechetical events that are open to one and all,” Father said. “But we really wanted to narrow the topics specific to male and female and maintain that level of distinction. We found it to be really fruitful and got good feedback from those attending.”

The first two topics for the male audience focused on the virtue of obedience with practical tips on how to be more obedient to Church authority. The other was on prudence— doing the right thing at the right time.

For women, one topic focused on spiritual warfare. 

“That was a big night for us that confirmed that this was an event that was here to stay,” Fr. Hochhalter said. “We had over 100 women in attendance. It was incredible. Covering this topic was a matter of detecting, in our life what is of God, what is of the evil one and what is just of our own human nature. The other topic we covered was about fear, asking is there such a thing as holy fear and unholy fear and when is one making decisions out of faith instead of fear. Engaging mothers at that event and helping them realize that a lot of decisions can be made from a place of fear rather than from hope was well received by those attending.”

Benefits and impact

In addition to talks, many ToT programs include social time, allowing attendees to build community and form connections with others who share common interests and values. This blend of engagement and social interaction helps to create a supportive environment where participants feel comfortable exploring their faith and spiritual questions.

The initial location was the current rectory house garage at Saint Anne’s which could comfortably welcome about 30-40 people, but they have quickly outgrown that space. Father Hochhalter said they have been working on renovating the parish garage (the garage connected to the church and parish offices) to make it feel more “homey.”

Instead of a pub or restaurant, the priests decided to open their home and host the events in a more personal setting.

“The original idea for this at a bar or pub was to capture that relaxed, open feel where friends are present,” Father explained. “It’s not like a classroom, and those settings have their place in the Church, but for these events, we want it warm and inviting.”

Fathers Gardner and Hochhalter get feedback from God in prayer and then in conversations with those who attend and offer ideas on topics and the format.

We think there’s a real grace offered in the connection with the parish priest and the faithful of that parish,” Fr. Hochhalter said. “When the topic is somewhat sensitive or near to the heart, you want that relationship to fulfill that role of spiritual fatherhood.”

One of the main benefits of ToT is its ability to bridge the gap between traditional religious settings and the everyday lives of busy adults who are balancing work and family life. By meeting in a casual setting and addressing contemporary faith-based issues, the program makes theological discussions more relevant and relatable. It also provides a space where individuals can explore their faith without the formality and structure often associated with religious meetings or educational classes.

Furthermore, Theology on Tap helps to build community among participants. In an era where many young adults experience isolation or disconnection from their faith communities, ToT offers a space to find like-minded individuals and form meaningful relationships. The program also encourages participants to become more involved in their faith communities and take an active role in their spiritual development thus becoming more active in their parish.

The future of Theology on Tap

Looking ahead, ToT will continue to expand and evolve, exploring new topics to meet the needs of the faithful. Its ongoing success will likely depend on its ability to remain relevant and responsive to the changing landscape of faith and spirituality.

The series of evenings at Saint Anne’s starts up again this fall. The adults-only events are held on Friday nights starting at 7 p.m. in the parish garage (enter through the church east door or parish office). Three nights for women will be Sept. 27, Nov. 22 and March 28. The men’s nights are Oct. 25, Feb. 28 and April 25. The events are open to everyone, from any parish in the diocese, ages 21 and over.

In a world where traditional religious practices may seem increasingly disconnected from the everyday experiences of the busy lives of today’s adults, Theology on Tap offers a vital bridge, blending faith and friendship in a way that resonates with the modern world.