The Food and Feasts of the Apostle Paul

Book excerpt: "With a vibrant narrative, recipes, and menus, this absorbing volume will be of interest to readers of Christian history and those interested in cookery and Mediterranean diets." -Booklist The Food and Feasts of the Apostle Paul takes readers inside the world of the early Christian church through a new lens—what people ate (and didn’t eat). The early church encompassed diverse communities and people, and understanding its food helps us understand both the worship and culture of these people, as well as their sources of conflict. Each chapter introduces readers to a different community or church Paul visited or started, explores one or two key foods, and offers recipes that reflect each community. Recipes range from simple to complex, from snack to feast. This book will help readers more fully experience the diverse cultures of the early Christian church to better understand the teachings of Jesus, Paul, and early Christian leaders.