Eucharist by Robert Barron
Robert Barron, now Bishop Barron, has the skill to write about complex theological issues and make them understandable. Of all of Bishop Barron's books, I reference this most commonly.
The Eucharist is the foundation of our Catholic faith and worship. The meaning of Eucharist is 'thanksgiving' and this must be remembered as you read this book. But it is not a sense of 'giving' that we are to be thankful for, but rather a giving of total self, something we barely believe possible. This is the gift of the Eucharist. Bishop Barron finds a human expression in the story of Babette's Feast.
Frequently in worship, we refer to the Eucharist as a sacrifice. Bishop Barron walks us through the Old Testament and the concept of covenant, with sacrifice being the bond that holds the two parties in union. I'm sure all of us who were married could understand the sacrifice that goes into a good marriage, but yet the joy of communion is what we really remember.
Take some time and read this book slowly, and read it holding a highlighter. When you are done, the phrases and thoughts will strengthen your understanding of this most precious gift.
