"Christian people," writes Max Thurian in his Introduction to this book, "eagerly await the day when all who believe in the eucharistic presence of Christ will be able to meet regularly around the same Table." In order to foster that unity in the Lord's Supper, Thurian here aims to help Christians understand how the Eucharist is perceived and practiced in various Christian traditions.

He traces the development of the Eucharist from the Jewish Passover meal, discusses the different conceptions of the doc-trine of the Real Presence, and includes a collection of ancient and modern eucharistic prayers from the many branches of the Christian church.

In particular, suggests Thurian, a knowledge of the back-ground and development of the doctrine of the Eucharist will encourage a more profound eucharistic life in Reformed churches, which will lead ultimately to a visible unity around the Table.

Although he deals with theological matters, Thurian writes simply and directly. His book will make a valuable contribution to the quest for unity in the Christian church.