Eucharistic Sharing: Barrier or Bridge?

The question of the term “Eucharistic Sharing” being a barrier or a bridge to ecume nism calls for a wider review, as it is only one of several terms used to speak of eucharist across denominational lines. It is important to delineate between them, to determine which is more appropriate, and in what context. This paper presents the question through the hermeneutic of interchurch families, where the question of eucharistic sharing impacts Sunday by Sunday. The term itself, while valuable as a touchstone, demonstrates its full value only insofar as the hard work of discerning appropriate terminology takes place, by the couple together with their churches. It is that work, at once challenging and rewarding, which will build the bridge across ecumenical estrangements.