Catholics and the Eucharist: A Scriptural Introduction

Rating:
Summary: A Book for Minds and Hearts
Review: Here is a book that every adult Catholic ought to read-a few times. Steve Clark has done a masterful job of explaining Catholic teaching about the Eucharist from the Scriptures. This is not an apologetics tract, although it aims to help non-Catholics who love Scripture see why Catholics believe what they do about the Eucharist. It is a profound explication of the Old Testament teaching on how Israel worshiped God, as well as a thoughtful, careful examination of how the New Testament preserves the wine of this transcendent worship in the new wine skins of Christian worship. In addition, Clark has included a most wonderful section in his book called, "Hearing God's Word," in which he reminds Catholics of their great heritage in the Scriptures and urges them to engage their hearts and minds in serious reflection on God's Word. Clark has done his work in the light of Vatican II, which describes the Scripture as the soul of Catholic theology. It is written for laymen. It deserves the widest possible readership.

Rating:
Summary: Highly Recommended
Review: I found Steve Clark's book, Catholics and the Eucharist, an engaging, inspiring, and informative read. The book's theology flows out of Holy Scripture, the Divine Liturgy (of both East and West) and Christian tradition. The result is that one learns not only about Holy Communion but about God Himself and His intention for His children (a little Christian history too). A confession: I'm not even Catholic; I'm Greek Orthodox. But, I have always found Steve's books to be thought provoking, so I gave a book addressed to Catholics a try - and was not disappointed. Great scholarship and a thoughtful presentation! I strongly recommend this book to any Christian - especially Catholics.

Rating:
Summary: Highly Recommended
Review: I found this book engaging, inspiring, and informative. The book's theology flows out of Holy Scripture, the Divine Lirturgy (both East and West) and Christian tradition. The result is that one learns not only about Holy Communion but about God Himself and His intention for His children (a little Christian history too). A confession: I'm not even Catholic; I'm Greek Orthodox. But I have found Mr. Clark's previous books to be thought provoking, so I gave this book - even thought it's addressed to Catholics - a try and was not disappointed. Great scholarship and a thoughtful presentation! I strongly recommend this book to any Chrisitan - even Catholics.

Rating:
Summary: Astonishing and insightful reading
Review: In my opinion Clark's book is worth four years of college theology but without the lectures and exams. It is a simple yet stunning work. Any Catholic interested in his or her faith will surely be inspired by Clark's book. It motivates the reader to reach out for greater understanding of worship and liturgy. Most importantly, Clark provides a powerful Scriptural basis for the Eucharist, as the core of Catholic liturgy.

It is especially helpful that his style is lucid and thought provoking. Clark very adroitly breaks down complex concepts into meaningful, understandable parts and beautifully reassembles the theological thought to move the reader along to the next level. In particular, Clark's examination and explanation of ancient Judaic temple rites and the roles played by different types of sacrifice was facinating.

The book transcends the topic of the Euchrist and boldly challenges the reader to consider the full meaning of the liturgy of the Mass and all its implications. This is a "must read" for anyone serious about their faith. You will not be disappointed.

Rating:
Summary: The True Spirit of Vatican II
Review: This is a perfect example of true Vatican II theology. The author explains the place of the Eucharist in Catholic worship and life in language accessible to ordinary readers while drawing on the depths of theological scholarship and Scripture study. True to the spirit of the Second Vatican Council represented by Pope John Paul II, his exposition is scriptural, patristic, liturgical, and ecumenical. Rather than focusing on particular points of controversy, this book treats the Eucharistic liturgy as a single act of sacrifice uniting the believer to Christ. In the course of this discussion, the author delves into such topics as the inspiration of Scripture, the meaning of sacrifice in Israelite worship, and the roots of the Christian liturgy in the Old Testament. This book is for anyone who wants to know what Catholics really believe about the Eucharist, and especially for Catholics who want to know why Sunday Mass in the parish really is the most important activity of every week.