“Is not the cup of blessing that we bless a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we who are many are one body; for we all partake of the one loaf.” — 1 Corinthians 10:16–17 (BSB)
“Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine—since he was priest of God Most High.” — Genesis 14:18 (BSB)
“I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And this bread, which I will give for the life of the world, is My flesh.” — John 6:51 (BSB)
Bread, made from many grains, symbolizes the unity of the Church—many members, one Body. Wine, the fruit of the vine, often symbolizes joy, blessing, and sacrifice in Scripture. Together, they become the means by which Christ communicates His life to us. When consecrated by His Word and Spirit, they do not change in substance, but they are set apart for a holy purpose—to be received in faith as the very Body and Blood of the Lord.
This use also recalls the priestly offering of Melchizedek, who brought out bread and wine as a sign of blessing (Genesis 14:18). Jesus, our Great High Priest, fulfills this image by giving us the Eucharist as the new covenant meal. Article XXVIII of the Thirty-Nine Articles affirms that “The Supper of the Lord was not commanded by Christ to be gazed upon or carried about, but that we should duly use it,” in the way He appointed—with bread and wine.
Bishop J.C. Ryle wrote, “Christ chose bread and wine, not water or honey, not meat or oil, but bread and wine—suitable emblems of the life and strength He gives to the soul. He knew what we needed and provided accordingly” (Knots Untied, 1874).
Canon Dr. John Yates III (Falls Church Anglican, ACNA) teaches, “Bread and wine are simple, common, and shared. They invite us to the Table, where grace is not rare or elite, but abundant and offered freely to all who believe” (Catechesis Forum, 2021).
Rev. Dr. Joel Scandrett (Trinity School for Ministry) writes, “In bread and wine, Christ chose the ordinary to convey the extraordinary. Through these simple gifts, He nourishes our souls with Himself and binds us together in love” (Anglican Catechism in Depth, 2020).
Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba (Church of Uganda) affirms, “The Table of the Lord is prepared with bread and wine—not as luxury, but as a sign that Christ gives Himself to us humbly, fully, and with joy” (Eucharistic Message, 2022).
Therefore, bread and wine are not arbitrary; they are Christ’s chosen signs—earthly gifts set apart for a heavenly purpose. Through them, we receive Christ, remember His sacrifice, and are nourished for the journey of faith.
St. Justin Martyr (c. 100–165 AD): “For we do not receive these as common bread and common drink. They are the flesh and blood of that Jesus who was made flesh for our salvation.” — First Apology, 66
St. Cyril of Jerusalem (c. 313–386 AD): “He Himself declared, ‘This is My body.’ Who then will dare to doubt? Bread and wine are visible, but after the invocation, they become sacred, bearing the grace of Christ.” — Catechetical Lectures, 22.6
St. Augustine of Hippo (354–430 AD): “Bread and wine are signs. But the one who believes and eats in faith receives not just a sign, but Christ Himself, who is the food of the soul.” — Sermon 272
An Anglican Catechism (Expanded) offers over 350+ Scripture-based answers to the core truths of the Christian faith. Each entry includes biblical texts, theological insight, and reflections from historic and contemporary Anglican voices. Rooted in the classical tradition, it is designed for teaching, discipleship, and spiritual formation.
An Ancient Worship Movement invites readers into the rich, historic worship of the early Church rediscovered through the Anglican tradition. This book calls believers into a deeper, Spirit-filled encounter with Christ through timeless practices.
St. Thomas Church
PO Box 873
Abbotsford, BC,
V2T 7A2, Canada
If you are interested in starting a St. Thomas Church in your area and or ordination path fill the contact card form.
St. Thomas Church is a Church planting movement in ancient tradition.
