Theology on Tap series in Rome aims to bring God to the people

Published: 2004-12-17

ROME (CNS) -- Students and young professionals crowded a dimly lit pub, munching on French fries, sipping pint-sized beers and smoking cigarettes. Their attention was fixed on the man perched next to the disc jockey booth, who was explaining that sex is not everything. "Sex is a wonderful thing," said Father Thomas Williams, dean of theology and a professor of moral theology at Rome's Regina Apostolorum university. "It may bring great pleasure, but you know enough people who live on sex who are not happy. Sex does not guarantee what we would understand to be joy. It is an additive, like salt," he said. After a successful run in several U.S. cities, "Theology on Tap" has arrived in Rome, targeting the city's English-speaking community. The Dec. 15 session, "Your Faith Life: Joy to the World or Bah Humbug?" featured Father Williams, a member of the Legionaries of Christ who celebrates a weekly English-language Mass in downtown Rome. He said living in a foreign country can bring young people closer to God. Part of his mission, he said, is helping these young people realize their goals.

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