What Happens in Holy Communion?

Michael Welker

ISBN 10: 0802846025 / ISBN 13: 9780802846020

Published by Wm. B. Eerdmans-Lightning Source, 2000

About this Item

Seller Inventory # 0802846025-3-32521939

Bibliographic Details

• Title: What Happens in Holy Communion?
• Publisher: Wm. B. Eerdmans-Lightning Source
• Publication Date: 2000
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0802846025
• ISBN 13: 9780802846020
• Binding: paperback
• Condition: Good

About this title

Synopsis

A renowned theologian revisits the purpose and potential of communion. All the large churches in the world agree on this: communion is the highest expression of the church unity. Yet it is exactly the act of communion that historically has given rise to vehement controversies among the churches. Michael Welker's new book not only explores the meaning of holy communion but also marks a turning point on the way to common understanding. Welker gives a clear explanation of holy communion based on the biblical tradition and evaluates the ecumenical discourse on communion of the past thirty years. In the process he answers such often posed questions as "What do we mean when we say that Christ is present in communion? " "How are Christ's body and blood connected with bread and wine? " "What is the difference between the Christian Supper and the Jewish Passover meal? " and "Are children allowed to share in communion? "

Reviews

The meaning of Communion or Eucharist has long been one of the most hotly disputed questions in Christian theology and one of the likeliest to lead to schism. University of Heidelberg professor Welker should be commended for his courage in stepping into this dogmatic lion's den and making the bravest possible attempt to discover a practice, a meaning, and a reward in the ritual re-enactment of Jesus' last meal that would satisfy the spiritual needs of believers in many denominations, Protestant and Catholic alike. As Welker himself recognizes, the churches are not united, yet he asserts that "the knowledge of truth will free the way." This is a thoughtfully written book on a difficult subject, and readers looking to understand this knotty problem should get a great deal from it. For collections strong in theology.
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.