Break the Holy Bread, Master: A Theology of Communion Bread

by Sergei Sveshnikov

This work examines the history, theology, and praxis of the use of sacramental bread in traditional Christianity. From the Last Supper to the Great Schism, and from Christology to ecclesiology and Christian anthropology—the symbolism of bread has dominated Christian history and belief. What kind of bread did Christ offer to His disciples at the Last Supper? Why do Roman Catholics and the Orthodox disagree on how to bake bread? What is the significance of the symbolism of bread for Christian theology and praxis? This book addresses these and many other questions. Scholars and bakers, clergy and lay folk alike—all are invited to take a closer look at that which speaks of our unity—one loaf to represent one Body.

112 pages, Paperback

First published February 25, 2009

About the author

Born and raised in the collapsing Soviet Union, Father Sergei's formative years fell during the perestroika period of the 1980s and tumultuous '90s. He studied psychology and sociology at the Ulyanovsk Branch of the Moscow State University.

After coming to the United States, Father Sergei served in the U.S. Navy, and continued his studies at Holy Trinity Seminary in Jordanville and Portland State University in Portland, Oregon. Father Sergei received both a Master's of Applied Theology and a Master's of Divinity degree from Marylhurst University. In 2001, he was ordained to the holy priesthood and appointed the rector of the Holy New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia Church in Mulino, Oregon, where he continues to serve.