The Living Bread

Father Thomas Merton was a 20th Century monk, mystic and writer whose works on mysticism and theology within the Roman Catholic tradition were both controversial and growundbreaking.In The Living Bread, Fr. Merton descibes some of the theology of the euacharist, as well as the mysticism behind it. His common theme, that the eucharist transcends the sacrafice of the Mass to a living representation of the love of God is a powerful message.Utilizing traditional apologetics and references, Fr. Merton brings the reader through such theological minefields as the metaphor versus the actuality of the sacrafice of the Mass, the doctrine of transubstantiation and the effacy of the real presence. The discussion in each chapter invariably turns to the eucharist as a mystical expression of God's love. One of the more profound quotes from the book references that instead of us taking Christ within us, like food, the sacrament of the eucharist creates a mystical union whereby Christ takes us into him.A good, approachble, profound and well researched and written source for understanding the mystical and theological aspects of the sacrament of the eucharist through the eyes of a Catholic priest and mystic.

If there was a required reading list for Catholics, this book would at least be in the top five. Thomas Merton sheds light on the beauty and mystical qualities of the eucharist like no one I've ever read. He helps the reader understand the experience that takes place for each person individually and for the entire body of Christ each time the eucharist is celebrated. I will never be the same after reading "The Living Bread". Reading it (several times at this point) has increased my sensitivity and reverence for the mass and enables me to enter into the mystical experience of the consecration in a unique way. My understanding and appreciation of the eucharist is changed forever. I am truly thankful for this book.

It gives a wide overview of what the Eucharist is and what it is not. I believe the book was written mainly for clerics, it was good for a laywoman as well

I have already read the book. I liked it very well and wanted to get it for a couple of friends.I am going to order a couple more for a couple more friendsI also want to order "An Impotant Office of Immense Love" by Joseph M. Champlin, however I forgot my pass work and you just didn't accept my order. I did it several times and nothing happened.

This book is astonishing in its simplicity of understanding the mystery of the Eucharist and compelling in its mystagogy for the edification and education of priests and the faithful.

When he was in the USA Pope Francis held up Thomas Merton as an example and this book shows that most important to Thomas Merton was the Eucharist including Adoration. This is how we will change the world for the better

I love this copy !! Someone took really special care of it. I am really impressed with the excellent condition of the dust jacket. I can't say thank you enough!

This was an excellent read for a spiritual and theological journey of the Eucharist. I have bought 5 other copies and given them to friends. I highly recommend to anyone wanting more on the Eucharist.

This book is out of print and so I was delighted to find an old copy that I could purchase. The book was as described and I am delighted with it. Thank you