'On Tap' program provides chance to 'talk faith'

They were there for a Theology on Tap program, sponsored by the Albany Diocese and Young Adult Ministries of Albany.

The discussion, led by Rev. Wayne Jones, a Methodist minister, was called "Being a Christian Couple: married, dating or prospecting." The goal was for participants to converse about how to lay the foundation for solid, lasting relationships with potential mates and to find ways to hold together existing relationships.

Working at it

Rebecca, another parishioner of St. Anthony's, went through the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults and has been a Catholic for three years. She is trying to involve herself and her family in the Church.

"I think a lot of people have gotten away [from the Church] with everything that's been going on lately," she said, adding that the Theology on Tap programs are a good way to meet other people who share her faith.

Connie Beeman, a coordinator of the discussion, said, "It's hard to be single and meet people. Theology on Tap brings people together." For her, the most important part of a relationship is sharing faith.

Being equal

He stressed the need for using the Bible as support when establishing connections with other people. "It's a tremendous guide to conducting relationships," he said.

He placed particular importance on the commandment to "love your neighbors as yourself." Knowing and respecting yourself is the first step, said Pastor Jones. Then you will be able to love God. Only then can you learn to love other humans.

"You can't get into a relationship or keep one going until you love yourself. It's the beginning point," he said.

He also emphasized the significance of communication. "How can you have a relationship with somebody if you don't know somebody?" he asked. "Let that person know: You're important to me. What do you want?"

Shared faith

"Something like that shows who you are," he said, adding that it is not necessary to interrogate someone about what they believe in order to find out their religious background.

Lauren Heckman, a participant in the discussion, agreed, saying: "Just ask yourself: Do I see the fruits of Christ in this person? You don't necessarily have to bring it up if it's not natural."

On Tap

Rick Daigle of St. Clement's Church in Saratoga Springs agreed. He attended several Theology on Tap events earlier this year. "I want to have friends that share the same faith and have morals," he said, citing honesty and "straightforwardness" as the basis for a good relationship.

(Theology on Tap continues on August 2, 7 p.m., with "What are Young Adults Looking for in our Church Today?" led by Rev. James Walsh, associate pastor of St. Pius X Church in Loudonville. It will be held at Quigg's Bar and Restaurant at 231 N. Main St. in Gloversville. For more information, call Carol Pickel at 453-6630 or go to www.yamAlbany.org.)

(07-25-02) [[In-content Ad]]