Word & Table Leaven
Dec 30, 2025
Fr. Stephen Gauthier, Canon Theologian of the Diocese of the Upper Midwest and Director of Formation at St. Paul's, dives into the rich symbolism of leaven in Scripture. He discusses its biblical frequency, linking it to the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, revealing how leaven symbolizes both purity and potential corruption. Their conversation explores leaven's dual role in Jesus' teachings and Paul's epistles, and even touches on how leaven has influenced Eucharistic practices and public piety throughout Church history.
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Leaven As Symbol Of Sacrificial Purity
- In the Old Testament leaven symbolizes adulteration and impurity when offered on God's altar.
- Leaven is excluded from burnt offerings to emphasize sacrificial purity and separation for God.
A Little Leaven Transforms Everything
- In the Gospels leaven highlights disproportionate influence: a small amount transforms the whole.
- Jesus uses leaven both positively for the kingdom and negatively for corrupting teachings like Pharisaic hypocrisy.
Purge Old Leaven From Community Life
- Paul urges Christians to 'cleanse out the old leaven' of malice and evil from the community.
- Celebrate the Paschal mystery with sincerity and truth, not the old corrupting patterns.