St. Austin: Patron Saint of More Than Just a Good Pint (But Also Maybe a Good Pint)
There are a bunch of saints out there, some with super specific areas of patronage (like St. Brendan the Navigator - handy if you're ever lost at sea with only a barrel of rainwater and a rogue sheep for company) and others who rack up a wider range of responsibilities (looking at you, St. Anthony - the patron saint of lost things, finding love, and apparently bacon). So, where does St. Austin fit into this heavenly hierarchy?
Well, buckle up, because St. Austin's patronage is a bit like a good pub trivia night - full of surprises and guaranteed to leave you slightly more informed (and possibly thirsty).
What is St Austin The Patron Saint Of |
The Brewer's Blessing (and Maybe the Hangovers Too?)
Let's start with the obvious. St. Austin, the patron saint of brewers. Now, this one might seem like a bit of a self-serving move by thirsty monks throughout the ages, but there's actually some history behind it. Back in the day, brewing wasn't just about whipping up a batch of your favorite IPA - it was a vital source of clean drinking water. Monks, being the clever (and thirsty) folks they were, perfected the art of brewing, and St. Austin, well, he was just a really insightful dude who saw the value in a good, safe beverage.
So next time you crack open a cold one, raise a glass to St. Austin - the OG brewmaster saint. (Though maybe don't blame him for that pounding headache in the morning.)
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
Beyond the Brew: A Saint for Scholars and Worriers
But St. Austin wasn't all about the hops. This guy was a serious intellectual - a philosopher and theologian who wrote a whole bunch of influential stuff that's still studied today. So naturally, he's the patron saint of scholars and students.
He also wrestled with some pretty big questions about life, the universe, and everything, which (let's be honest) can leave you feeling a tad stressed. So, if you're ever feeling overwhelmed by existential dread, remember, St. Austin's been there too. He's basically the patron saint of overthinking (although that's not an official title... yet).
St. Austin of the Isles: Spreading the Good Word (and Maybe Some Tea?)
There's actually another St. Austin out there, sometimes called St. Augustine of Canterbury. This chap was a missionary who brought Christianity to England in the 6th century. So, if you ever find yourself in jolly old England and fancy a spot of tea and crumpets while thanking someone for the existence of Sunday roasts, St. Augustine is your guy.
QuickTip: Treat each section as a mini-guide.
FAQ: Getting to Know St. Austin
How to become a brewer under St. Austin's saintly gaze?
There's no official brewer certification from the Saintly Brewers' Guild (although that sounds pretty cool), but honing your homebrew skills and appreciating a good craft beer is a great start.
How to channel your inner scholar and impress St. Austin?
QuickTip: Keep going — the next point may connect.
Hit the books! Read something thought-provoking, ask big questions, and don't be afraid to get a little philosophical.
How to avoid an existential crisis and appease St. Austin (the overthinker)?
Meditation, mindfulness, and maybe a good chat with a friend can help. But hey, even St. Austin couldn't avoid pondering the meaning of life entirely.
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
How to celebrate St. Augustine of Canterbury (and maybe have a good cuppa)?
May 27th is his feast day, so brew a pot of tea, indulge in some scones, and maybe even watch a good historical drama (think "The Crown" but way, way earlier).
How to tell which St. Austin you're dealing with?
If beer is involved, it's probably the brewer dude. If you're knee-deep in British history, it's Augustine of Canterbury. Easy peasy!