In John 2, we learn of Jesus’ miracle during the wedding at Cana— turning water into wine. To praise Jesus’ works, Dave Averion and about 20 other Catholic men are putting a modern twist on this Scripture.

“We have all read about the wedding at Cana where Jesus kept the party going with wine, so why not bourbon today?” asked Averion, a Christ Renews His Parish (CRHP) Bourbon Club (CBC) member.

“The concept developed after a group of the original members just finished a CRHP retreat weekend,” said Averion. “They didn’t want to lose the power of the Holy Spirit that had grown so strong during formation, so they continued to meet monthly to pray the Rosary, have fellowship and drink bourbon.”

Averion shared that CBC is unique in many ways.

“One of the special things about CBC is that we check our egos at the door,” said Averion. “The typical male stereotype dictates that men should not be vulnerable, but we understand that we are all broken, we are all sinners, have weaknesses and fight the Devil’s temptations daily. It is exhausting if you think about it. At CBC, we can share our brokenness just as much as our triumphs and victories. Giving our brokenness to God is the right thing to do. Surrender to Jesus through the Holy Mother. It really is that simple.”

In addition to a monthly CBC meeting, Averion said group members also gather monthly to serve food at the Hope House in Middletown. It serves the homeless by providing immediate meals and shelter and offering programs and services for continuous life transformations. After his wife served a meal there, Averion brought the idea of serving to the CBC.

“It’s difficult to admit, but I was once one of those people who thought. ‘Why don’t the homeless just get a job?’” said Averion. “I shunned them and thought I was better than them. I realize now that my perspective is pretty pathetic; I am ashamed that I once thought that way. We are all just five minutes away from losing everything, and we in CBC want to help some men who need hope, respect and compassion.”

Averion emphasized that CBC does not serve for recognition. Rather, “it’s the Holy Spirit living through us. We are just the pawn listening to the Master.”

“We are being called to serve our fellow man in a small way. We pray with them and serve them a meal; however, we also sit down and eat with them,” continued Averion. “We recognize them as children of God and that small gesture can give them confidence and hope that they can elevate above their current situation. As Saint Mother Teresa said, ‘We can do no great things, only small things with great love.’”

This article appeared in the June 2023 edition of The Catholic Telegraph Magazine. For your complimentary subscription, click here.