A Brief Review of Two Works Concerning the Eucharist

 

The study of Medieval Christianity is one of my favorite topics and the doctrines Eucharist are some of the most important doctrines of Christianity to me. 

Recently, I finished one of the volumes in The Fathers of the Church: Medieval Continuations. Pictured above, this book includes two works by Medieval theologians who defended an early understanding of what we now call ''Transubstantiation.'' I must say that reading the works of Lanfranc of Canterbury and Guitmund of Aversa has led me to agree with the Catholic position. In fact, I now have more knowledge of Scripture, philosophy, and church history as they pertain to this doctrine than I have ever had. I encourage everyone reading this to also read this volume. Both Medieval theologians defend their views on the subject from their extensive knowledge of Scripture, philosophy, and church history. As far as I am aware. It is by far the best defense of Transubstantiation. Ultimately, I would consider it among the top ten books of theology that I've read. It is a true gem, even as it remains a highly underrated one. 

For those interested in why most Christians throughout church history believed that the Eucharist is the literal Body and Blood of Christ, I highly recommend this work. The two pieces contained in the volume extensively use Scripture to justify belief in Transubstantiation. But as with any topic in theology, the reader must be open to Biblical truth before considering the arguments presented. 

Thankfully, this volume has been published with extensive notes. The Catholic University of America continues to foster the careful study of the Middle Ages, for which every medievalist should be grateful. The notes further illuminate the modern reader in understanding the text itself. 

As a work of Medieval literature, it also can be a good source for those aspiring to learn more about the theological background of works such as Quest of the Holy Grail and Pearl. Indeed, one cannot understand the literature of the Middle Ages without understanding its theology.