Sir, - One of the early Church Fathers, Gregory of Nyssa, writing in the fourth century, relates that when you went to buy a loaf of bread even the baker discussed theology! Now, approaching the end of the 20th century, this apparently increasingly secular society has been discussing the meaning of the Eucharist - in pubs, at parties and even on street corners, not to mention on "the Net" or through the Letters pages of newspapers.
What is particularly fascinating is the degree of difference exposed, not so much between the different traditions, but between those espousing the same tradition! But then Communion is not about sameness but about a unity which holds difference. The only truly depressing factor in all of this dialogue has been the attempt by some writers to vilify the views or motives of others. I felt personally distressed by the insinuation by one writer of an ulterior motive in the invitation by ministers of the Church of Ireland to those of other traditions to receive the Eucharist. In my experience, as a regular "guest" at the table in the Anglican church, such invitations are issued with great sensitivity, and indeed in a manner which respects and honours those visitors who do not take Communion, as well as those who feel able to do so. The first rule of ecumenical conversation must be to accept the good faith of the other.
One way of mediating between the different positions expressed might be to place less emphasis on the elements of bread and wine and what they signify, and more on the participants themselves as the Body of Christ. Eucharist finds its full meaning in the acts of breaking and sharing - it is primarily relational. In that sense, participation in the Eucharist commits us to work for the unity to which we aspire and which is expressed by breaking bread together.
"We being many, are one body, for we all share in the one bread" - words used in both the Anglican and Roman Catholic liturgy. Difference is not obliterated but transcended in the act of Communion. - Yours, etc.,
Kensington Villas, Dublin 6.