I recently discovered this opportunity through Thomas Nelson Publishing to receive a book in exchange for posting a review on my blog. So while I’m not connected to Thomas Nelson in any other way and not required to post a positive review, I thought I should be clear that this isn’t just clear out of the blue. For anyone who might be interested, here’s the link to sign up: http://brb.thomasnelson.com/
Eucharist, Communion, the Lord’s Supper. Different terms for the same event in worship. One that is full of strange language and often unfamiliar symbolism. Yet one that remains integral to churches worldwide.
Nora Gallagher takes a look at this historic practice in “The Sacred Meal.” She walks the reader through the various aspects of communion, showing how a healthier understanding of this practice addresses our modern desire for community and personal connection. She deftly weaves together the history of communion in the church with other teachings of Jesus. Intertwined with these biblical quotations are poignant vignettes of her own history with the practice.
Gallagher’s personal touch makes this book come alive. You want to know where her story is going, how it ends. Each discovery she makes builds upon the previous one. The book teaches but not in a way that feels authoritarian. Because these are lessons she herself has learned through the practice, they are much easier for us to swallow. She invites the reader to grow with her, rather than telling us where we are lacking.
Anyone looking to learn more about Eucharist and deepen their own understanding of this practice, would be well served by reading this book.
