Vondey,
in People of Bread, says in his
conclusion that “the rediscovery of an ecumenical ecclesiology based on the
image of bread…is framed by the hallmarks of a life in companionship, an ethic
of hospitality, and a joint celebration of the Eucharistic meal. These three elements are not individual
entities but three expressions of the same fundamental reality we call ‘Church’”
(300).
When
he speaks of “companionship,” Vondey means “a deliberate fellowship of people
who seek to establish and maintain relationships with one another.” (67) They share life together, break bread and
enjoy food together, and are there for each other in concrete ways. “Hospitality” refers to a community which
does not have closed borders, but is open to welcome the poor and the outcast, including
those who do not share the same beliefs (294-95). It “is not a simple social
obligation but also a personal, moral responsibility.” One shares “bread with strangers in order to
turn them into neighbors” (93). The “Eucharistic meal” refers to a ritual that
involves breaking bread (that looks and tastes like bread) together. The bread is not only “the body of the
crucified and resurrected Lord” (297), it is also Christ’s continuing presence
in the Church (296-97).
How does this
relate to my ministry? Once again, I
turn to the women in NOPP. We are still
talking about their desire to receive Communion. None of them understand the Catholic teaching
that only Catholics can receive the Eucharist in the Catholic Church.
In
this light, how could we celebrate the Lord’s Supper in the prison? We’re talking about preparing for it by
trying to live as a community that shares life, not just on Tuesdays when we
get together for church, but as a group that shares life together, who eat
together and who are available for each other in any needs. We’ll let others know that we’re an open
community, happy to welcome anyone who is searching for God or for meaning in
her life. And we’ll plan what we want to
include in our ritual: what prayers,
scripture readings, blessings over the bread, hymns, poetry, art, etc., we want
to include, and choose who will do what, making sure that everyone has a
role. It will evolve, and may not ever
happen, but that’s where we are right now.
I will find out about bringing a piece of
bread we can use; if that isn’t possible, someone will save the bread from her meal, and
we will divide that among us. We will
become “Women of Bread,” like the early Christians. Vondey would be proud!
