St. Arnold was a bishop who lived during a time of devastating plague. Out of concern over tainted drinking water, St. Arnold encouraged his parishioners to drink beer instead of water for better health. As the beer was made by boiling the water, and the alcohol had a natural antiseptic property, the holy bishop’s good counsel caused the plague to subside for his parishioners. St. Arnold has many genuine miracles attributed to him, one of his most well-known being an unending mug of beer.

After death, the beloved bishop’s remains were taken in procession to their final resting place so all could pay their respects. During St. Arnold’s funeral procession, the pall bearers, exhausted by the heat and distance of the route, stopped at a pub to gain refreshment. Staying true to St. Arnold’s earthly requests, they ordered beer, but sadly, there was only one mug of beer left in the pub. Undeterred, the pall bearers prayed for St. Arnold’s intercession and prayers. They proceeded to pass the sole mug of beer around. All the thirsty men drank from the mug, and the mug did not go dry until the last man had his fill. St. Arnold is the patron Saint of beer brewers.

St. Arnold’s Mug of Beer is dedicated to the memory of Greg Beshouri, who was a great friend and who liked to recount the tale of St. Arnold’s endless mug of beer. He was always happier when the clock struck “Beer o’clock.” May the Divine Assistance always remain with us, and may the souls of the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.