Eucharist: A Guide for the Perplexed

This is an exploration of the complexities/perplexities raised by asking what is the Eucharist?What is the Eucharist? This direct question would seem to yield an equally direct answer. However, as soon as we begin to answer it, we encounter an array of responses layered with various complexities. The answer is shaped by who answers, e.g. a Roman Catholic, an Anglican, or a Baptist. Perhaps, even the name 'Eucharist' would be contested. Answers to this question would reflect not only confessional differences but the spectrum of theological and liturgical perspectives across Christianity.One might emphasize the communal nature of the Eucharist, the presence of Christ for adoration, the fellowship around a table, or a sacrifice performed on an altar. In addition to the multiplicity of images employed and liturgical styles preferred, answering the Eucharistic question will involve explicitly or implicitly the comprehensive scope of theological concepts.Reflecting on the nature of the Eucharist will take Christological, soteriological, and ecclesiological directions, while implicating Trinitarian theology, theology of creation, eschatology, and theological construal's of culture and language.Lastly, we can consider the distorted Eucharistic relations among the churches. Why is the sacrament of unity functioning as a sign of disunity? In this book, Ralph McMichael analyses these complexities/perplexities raised by asking what is the Eucharist? This analysis will serve to point the way forward beyond the plurality of answers and emphases without reducing their significance. He develops a Eucharistic way to consider questions put to the Eucharist. Thus he locates theological reflection on the Eucharist within it.Continuum's "Guides for the Perplexed" are clear, concise and accessible introductions to thinkers, writers and subjects that students and readers can find especially challenging - or indeed downright bewildering. Concentrating specifically on what it is that makes the subject difficult to grasp, these books explain and explore key themes and ideas, guiding the reader towards a thorough understanding of demanding material.

'As the Eucharist recovers its place as the central act of worship in many churches, the need for a guide both to its history and meaning becomes more and more urgent.  McMichael's Guide for the Perplexed answers that need.  With great skill and clarity we are led through a consideration of the various ways in which the Eucharist has been perceived and explicated in times past.  At the same time, we are treated to a profound meditation upon the Eucharist as gift which constitutes the life of the church,  a gift which grounds us in the present, points us toward the future and invites us to live eucharistically for the sake of the world.' -  The Most Rev. Frank T. Griswold, 25th Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, Former Co-Chair of the Anglican-Roman Catholic International CommissionChurch Times

Ralph N. McMichael, Jr. is Canon Theologian and Dean of the Episcopal School for Ministry in the (Episcopal) Diocese of Missouri. He received his Ph.D. in systematic theology from The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC.