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 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.””
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.
Every element can mediate divine life.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- liturgical education
- spiritual direction
Key Concepts
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?
Interpretations vary; some traditions see sacraments more symbolically.