Lawler, I didn't know there was a Puritan Church still in existence in Granite City, IL.
I have been to several of these events.
You would be right if a church promoted drunkenness and alcoholism, it would be a grave sin, or said churches that we all know about would call it a MORTAL SIN.
I do not believe that these events promote drunkenness or alcoholism whatsoever.
I DO believe though that liquor control does need to be stricter at these events. You have volunteers pouring beer and the control at some of these events has been (shall we say) a little lax.
There is nothing wrong with having a drink, even at a church event. It's not immoral, not even illegal nor should it be!
However, when moderation is breached, then it becomes a serious problem.
I believe said fish fries and carnivals - especially the carnivals need to be policed much better than they are.
These volunteers are not able to properly cut people off who do not need to be drinking. And you are right in a sense that people really do get drunk at these events...more so the carnival than the fish fry events.
Beer is the natural beverage to ENJOY with a pork steak or bratwurst.
But to drink directly from the paper pitcher...these things do get out of hand.
I am semi-agreeing with you Lawler, but I don't have the same puritanical stand that you do.
I mean the children of Immigrants partake in family traditions, and when it's time to celebrate, it's time to celebrate!! (But in moderation).