cover image Sharing Food: Christian Practices for Enjoyment

Sharing Food: Christian Practices for Enjoyment

L. Shannon Jung. Fortress Press, $15 (197pp) ISBN 978-0-8006-3792-7

Jung, who teaches at St. Paul School of Theology, suggests that if Christians develop intentional practices of ""mindful"" eating, they will enjoy food more and connect with God. Jung explores practices such as praying before meals, hospitality, fasting and feasting. He also encourages that simple but often overlooked practice of ""preparing food""-that is, cooking. (And he admits that a ""male perspective"" allowed him neglect cooking for years!) Jung discusses the Lord's Supper as the ""master practice"" of Christian eating, a ritual that transforms people, builds community, and reminds participants of their own ""erodability,"" thus connecting them to the Earth. He also considers the political and economic implications of culinary choices: he is concerned about the ways ""American economic dominance impacts the global food system."" Christians can express their commitment to social justice by eating food that is grown locally, supporting fair trade policies and advocating legislation that supports small and medium-sized farms. Reflection questions and suggested activities-which range from watching Babette's Feast with friends to meeting with a nutritionist-will help readers apply the wisdom in this book. And the footnotes, which direct readers to a wealth of additional books and articles, are an added benefit. This thoughtful study will be a great resource for individuals and church groups.