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Bread and wine Quote by Alexander Schmemann

“In the Orthodox ecclesial experience and tradition a sacrament is understood primarily as a revelation of the genuine nature of creation, of the world, which, however much it has fallen as "this world," will remain God's world, awaiting salvation, redemption, healing and transfiguration in a new…” quote by Alexander Schmemann
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““In the Orthodox ecclesial experience and tradition a sacrament is understood primarily as a revelation of the genuine nature of creation, of the world, which, however much it has fallen as "this world," will remain God's world, awaiting salvation, redemption, healing and transfiguration in a new earth and a new heaven. In other words, in the Orthodox experience a sacrament is primarily a revelation of the sacramentality of creation itself, for the world was created and given to man for conversion of creaturely life into participation in divine life. If in baptism water can become a "laver of regeneration," if our earthy food - bread and wine - can be transformed into partaking of the body and blood of Christ, if with oil we are granted the anointment of the Holy Spirit, if, to put it briefly, everything in the world can be identified, manifested and understood as a gift of God and participation in the new life, it is because all of creation was originally summoned and destined for the fulfillment of the divine economy - "then God will be all in all.””

Alexander Schmemann

About This Quote

In Orthodox theology, sacraments reveal creation’s divine purpose, turning everyday elements into conduits of God’s grace and participation in the new life.

In simple terms: Sacraments turn the world into divine gifts.

Key Takeaway

Every element can mediate divine life.

Themes

theology sacraments creation

Mood

reverent contemplative

Type

theological explanatory

When to use this quote

  • liturgical education
  • spiritual direction

Key Concepts

participation in divine economy transfiguration

Practical Applications

  • incorporate sacramental symbolism in daily prayer
  • teach the theological meaning of baptism and Eucharist

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does seeing the world as sacramental affect daily living?
  • What challenges arise when viewing ordinary objects as sacred?
A Different Perspective

Interpretations vary; some traditions see sacraments more symbolically.

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