Body of christ Quote by Alexander Schmemann
““The Purpose of the Eucharist lies not in the change of the bread and wine, but in the partaking of Christ, who has become our food, our life, the manifestation of the Church as the body of Christ. This is why the gifts themselves never became in the Orthodox East an object of special reverence, contemplation, and adoration, and likewise an object of special theological 'problematics': how, when, in what manner their change is accomplished.””
About This Quote
Source Theology Lecture, 1995
The Eucharist’s significance is communal participation in Christ, not merely a physical transformation of elements.
In simple terms: Eucharist is about sharing Christ, not changing bread.
Key Takeaway
Focus on the spiritual communion of the rite.
Themes
faith
sacraments
community
Mood
contemplative
reverent
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- church services
- personal devotion
- educational seminars
Key Concepts
theology
mystery
embodiment
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “partaking of Christ” mean to you?
- How do you experience the Eucharist beyond the elements?
A Different Perspective
Emphasizing mystery may alienate those seeking literal explanations.
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