A tavern is an establishment that serves alcohol (beer, cider, and wine) but not liquor. This can help ensure an establishment with a focus on the spiritual development of individuals can better manage the physical wellbeing of it's patrons through the ease of moderation of alcohol.
A tavern can be the setting for a faith community for the same reason any setting can function for a faith community--when 2+ believers are gathered together anywhere, Jesus is there with them.
But a tavern does have specific means for the church to reimagine itself. Sharing food, drink, and faith is as Holy as it gets-- Jesus' Ministry was spent at the table with believer and seeker alike.
People seek guidance, fellowship, and hospitality when visiting a bar. A faith community can leverage this to help others feel comfortable discussing aspects of their own faith or lack thereof. And along the way, some will find Jesus.
Community is formed at the local bar, the very thing the local church strives to fulfill. If churches are willing to reimagine their notion of what a church building looks like, then there's no reason why a tavern couldn't be the setting for a faith community.
~PK
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