More Than Communion

The dominant contemporary model for ecclesiology (theological views of the church itself) is the ecclesiology of communion. MacDougall argues that communion ecclesiologies are often marked by a problematic theological imagination of the future (eschatology). He argues further that, as a result, our ways of practising and being the church are not as robust as they might otherwise be. Re-imagining the church in the light of God's promised future, then, becomes a critical conceptual and practical task. MacDougall presents a detailed exploration of what communion ecclesiologies are and some of the problems they raise. He offers two case studies of such theologies by examining how distinguished theologians John Zizioulas and John Milbank understand the church and the future, how these combine in their work, and the conceptual and practical implications of their perspectives. He then offers an alternative theological view and demonstrates the effects that such a shift would have. In doing so, MacDougall offers a proposal for recovering the 'more' to communion and to ecclesiology to help us imagine a church that is not beyond the world (as in Zizioulas) or over against the world (as in Milbank), but in and for the world in love and service. This concept is worked out in conversation with systematic theologians such as Jürgen Moltmann, Wolfhart Pannenberg, and Johannes Baptist Metz, and by engaging with a theology of Christian practices currently being developed by practical theologians such as Dorothy C. Bass, Craig Dykstra, and those associated with their ongoing project. The potential for the church to become an agent of discipleship, love, and service can best be realised when the church anticipates God's promised perfection in the full communion between God and humanity, among human beings, within human persons, and between humanity and the rest of creation.

Discover more Joy and grace in Holy Communion: You'll be surprised at how easy it is to break out of the dullness that obscures the glory of meeting our Lord in Communion. You'll learn how to approach Communion not as a duty, but as a preparation for heaven.

In this volume in the Liturgy Documentary Series, the bishops reaffirm the distribution of the Holy Communion to the faithful under both kinds.

The Lord's Supper has been the central and characteristic action of the church at worship. But there are still many ways of understanding it and many questions surrounding this meal... Who should participate in the Lord’s Supper? How frequently should we observe it? What does this meal mean? What happens when we eat the bread and drink from the cup? What do Christians disagree about and what do they hold in common? These and other questions are explored in this volume of the fair-minded, informative Counterpoints series. Contributors make a case for one of the following views: Baptist view (memorialism) Reformed view (spiritual presence) Lutheran view (consubstantiation) Roman Catholic view (transubstantiation) All contributors use Scripture to present their views, and each responds to the others' essays. Included are resources for understanding the topic further, such as: A listing of statements on the Lord's Supper from creeds and confessions Quotations from noted Christians A resource listing of books on the Lord's Supper Discussion questions for each chapter to facilitate small group and classroom use The Counterpoints series presents a comparison and critique of scholarly views on topics important to Christians that are both fair-minded and respectful of the biblical text. Each volume is a one-stop reference that allows readers to evaluate the different positions on a specific issue and form their own, educated opinion.

"I am Jesus. And I want to say, 'Happy First Holy Communion Day!'" In this unique gift book, Jesus speaks warmly and lovingly to children who are receiving him in the Eucharist for the first time. In twelve scenes from Scripture from Creation to Pentecost, Jesus explains that it is his Father's plan for each child to be part of their family of love. He invites the child to be his friend and to draw close to him in the Eucharist and in prayer. Each Scripture scene is colorfully illustrated by Italian artist Maria Cristina Lo Cascio. This book also features An opening dedication page; Pages to record memories, including photos, church programs, and a space for children to write or draw; Traditional prayers such as the Our Father and Hail Mary.

There is miraculous power in the sacrament of communion. More than a religious ritual, communion is a doorway into untapped realms of Gods glory and miracle-working power. In this 40-day prayer and devotional experience, Beni and Bill Johnson take you on a prayer journey through the Lords supper as it is revealed in Scripture. Discover communion as A sacred place of intimacy with God. A weapon of spiritual warfare. A prophetic act that creates dynamic change. A catalyst for total healing. Join Beni and Bill Johnson on this journey of rediscovery, and open yourself to a powerful encounter with the living God!

In what way can we consider the Lord's Supper more than just a memorial service but a means of grace? In this impressive new study, Richard Barcellos shows that the Lord's Supper is a means of grace because of what the Holy Spirit does in the souls of believers when local churches partake of it.

Rekindle your love for the Eucharist If going to Mass and taking Communion has become just another routine for you, don’t assume that indifference is an ordinary part of growing mature in the Faith. On the contrary: your love of Communion should be growing stronger. You can strengthen it now with this wise book from a little-known saint, Peter Julian Eymard. St. Peter shows you how surprisingly easy it is to break out of the dullness that can settles into your soul, obscuring the glory of meeting your Lord in Communion. You’ll learn from him how to approach Holy Communion not as a duty, but as a preparation for Heaven. His direction can help you, too, to draw on the spiritual resources God gives you in every Communion. You’ll find valuable directions about what to do when you feel unworthy to receive Communion, as well as useful — and unexpected — advice about how to make your post-Communion thanksgivings more fruitful. Through Scripture and holy logic, St. Peter Julian Eymard will impress upon you exactly how important Holy Communion is for growth in the spiritual life. Now is the time for you to take up this brief book and let this holy man show you how to transform your Communions into the bountiful sources of grace God wants them to be. You'll learn: Why Holy Communion must be central to your prayer and work — and how it can be How Holy Communion actually helps you grow in virtue and holiness What you must do — and must not do — after Holy Communion in order to maximize its effects in your soul How Communion helps you bring order and harmony to your human relationships Looking for happiness in this life? How Holy Communion is your key even to the most lasting worldly joys Eternal life: how Holy Communion plants its seed in your soul today Your spiritual life: why it quickly languishes without regular Communion How to avoid the common mistake people make that renders their Communions ineffective Not experiencing any spiritual joy in Communion? What you must do And much more that will transform your Communions from routine observances to dynamic encounters with the living God!