September / October 2021

Food, meals, the people we share meals with and places we gather to share meals all shape our understanding of Eucharist. In this issue we explore these interrelated topics. Meghan Murphy-Gill offers a theological reflection on the meaning of making bread, especially during Covid-19. Chef James Bartel not only offers a recipe for a eucharist-inspired meal but shares his own spirituality of cooking. Meal sharing gathers us around a table. Michael DeSanctis explores the history of the Christian altar, which began as a table. Dennis Billy, C.Ss.R. delves into the rich literary offerings of Rumer Godden, especially her popular novel In This House of Brede whose central drama unfolds as a Benedictine community of Nuns considers renovating their chapel and altar during the time of the Second Vatican Council. Stephanie Clary brings together sacrifice, food, and Eucharist in a thoughtful reflection on motherhood and breastfeeding. To all of this we add a healthy serving of scripture reflections by Biblical scholar Lisa Marie Belz, OSU.