Eating and Drinking at the Welcome Table

Here pulses the he..... of a prophet, but finally the passion of a believer. McElvaney's phrase "welcome table" is decisive for his awareness that the table welcomes many whom society unwelcomes, among them the poor, refugees, children, gays and lesbians, the disabled. The recovery of sacramental life in a failed technological society is urgent. This book is an important step in that indispensable recovery.

Walter Brueggemann

Columbia Theological Seminary

In this thoughtful and passionate book, McElvaney shows how communion is the pivotal point for a life of generous, generative faith. He explores the pastoral and prophetic aspects of the eucharist and focuses on the "welcome table" as a vehicle for including those whom society excludes.

This is a book to be read slowly and savored, either alone or shared with others. It invites deep reflection and conversation on the central action of the Christian faith in ways that open up a familiar action to newer and deeper meaning. It will bless you.

Marjorie Procter-Smith

Perkins School of Theology Southern Methodist University A

William K. McElvaney is LeVan Professor Emeritus of Preaching and Worship at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas. He served for twelve years as president of Saint Paul School of Theology, Kansas City, Missouri, and fifteen years as a United Methodist pastor.