Days of the Beer, December 8

The beer for today (isn't a beer) is Original Sin Cider.

On December 8, 1854, Pope Pius IX declared the Catholic dogma of Immaculate Conception, that states that the Virgin Mary was born free of original sin.

The Catholics believe, that Mary was born without any stain, "macula" in Latin. They state that from the first moment of her existence, she was preserved by God from the lack of sanctifying grace, and was instead filled with divine grace. They also believe that she lived a life completely free from sin.

Pope Pius XII said "she was free from any personal or hereditary sin". Her immaculate conception by normal sexual intercourse, should not be confused with the virginal conception of Jesus.

This whole concept sort of goes against the teachings of the rest of the Bible.

Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Now, lets get into a bit of theology, shall we? If Mary never sinned, then why did she take the offering of the turtledoves to the temple? Having a child was considered unclean (is uncleanliness sin?)

Luke 2:24 And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

One of two things would have happened here, either she had to offer them as the sin offering, or she lied to everyone about why she had to offer the pigeons. (Additionally, what was Jesus purpose, if not to get people from following the letter of the law, but to follow the spirit of the law?) Why would his mother (who is supposedly sin free) have to give that offering?

Leviticus 12: 6 And when the days of her purifying are fulfilled, for a son, or for a daughter, she shall bring a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, and a young pigeon, or a turtledove, for a sin offering, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, unto the priest:
8 And if she be not able to bring a lamb, then she shall bring two turtles, or two young pigeons; the one for the burnt offering, and the other for a sin offering: and the priest shall make an atonement for her, and she shall be clean.

You see, it was for a sin offering. So, did Mary sin?

As to the cider:

Original Sin Cidery is based out of New York, New York.

Original Sin Hard Cider is a 6% alcohol cider made from the finest domestic apples. Light and crisp with a smooth finish, Original Sin contains no artificial flavors or colors, allowing the natural flavor of the apple to speak for itself.

Original Sin is gluten-free.

Original Sin is available in bars, restaurants, and gourmet markets throughout New York, and is now available in MA, VA, MI, DC, OH, NJ, MD, NC, KY, IN, GA, SC, IL, and KS as well. Coming soon to TN and WI!

So, for the girl born without original sin, have an Original Sin yourself, heck, have a couple, make up for all those who believe in that too.