While that Bloody Mary isn't exactly the Blood of Christ, and eggs benedict is definitely not a reference to Pope Benedict II, Sunday Brunch actually has a lot in common with good old Sunday Mass. Here are a few reasons to consider the spiritual healing power of Chicken and Waffles:

1. You repent your sins from the night before.

Whatever debauchery you got into Saturday night, Sunday is a time for regret. Just like you go to church to ask for forgiveness, you go to brunch to assess the damage from last night with your friends. So get yourself some chocolate chip pancakes, reflect on your bad decisions, and swear you'll definitely be better this week.

2. It brings people together.

The Crusaders have nothing on loyal brunch-goers. Sunday is the perfect time to call up your friends and come together for a common goal: overpriced french toast. Because as much as church is about religion, it's bigger than that: People go to church for the community aspect of it. Church is a social occasion, and the same goes for brunch. Sure, you could read the Bible or make yourself a sandwich at home, but nothing beats the company of loved ones. Brunch even unites people who want different meals! There's no need to choose between breakfast and lunch because you can have both at the same time.

3. You leave feeling more fulfilled.

Churches often talk about "the art of helping young people to completeness" — and I would argue that the same applies to brunch. No matter how empty your stomach (or your head) feels when you arrive, you'll leave feeling happier, healthier, more awake, and more complete. Both church and brunch leave you with a certain satisfaction that can't be found anywhere else.

4. It makes you a better version of yourself.

Let's be honest, we're never looking or feeling our best on Sunday morning. Between smeared mascara and pangs of regret, we always seem to be at our worst when we wake up on Sundays. Churches love to emphasize becoming the best version of yourself, and brunch can do the same. Great food and great company just make you an all-around better person. You leave brunch as a better version of yourself (which shouldn't be too hard, considering you were in a pretty rough state when you arrived).

So next time you're feeling down on a Sunday, grab some friends and head over to your favorite brunch spot (or I guess you could go to church, if you want to save $20).