Why is the Eucharist round?

[dsponable]

During the consecration of the host at Mass, my 8 year old son turned to me asked, “Why is the Eucharist round?”.

I thought this was a good question, but I did not have an answer. I’m sure the bread in Christ’s time was not round. When was the host changed to the round form and why?

Thanks for your help!

Peace of Christ

Dennis

 

[mosher]

Here is the entry on the Old Catholic Encclopedia

newadvent.org/cathen/07489d.htm

 

[Roman_Army]

dsponable:

During the consecration of the host at Mass, my 8 year old son turned to me asked, “Why is the Eucharist round?”.

I thought this was a good question, but I did not have an answer. I’m sure the bread in Christ’s time was not round. When was the host changed to the round form and why?

Thanks for your help!

Peace of Christ

Dennis

It doesn’t really matter what shape. The circular shape symbolizes the sun. The sun symbolizes Christ. The early Christians used to pray towards the East, where the sun rises. This is due to a psalm (I forgot which one) and the fact that Jesus used a lot of the word “light” in his messages.

 

[Jabronie]

I think its current size and shape are also designed to make it difficult for any of it to break off before consumption.

 

[wannabee]

symbolic ?
A circular object is complete - there is no beginning and no end

 

[JimG]

Jabronie:

I think its current size and shape are also designed to make it difficult for any of it to break off before consumption.

I agree. A square eucharistic host, for example, would be easier for pieces to break off. Round is best.