Koinonia-Communio in Orthodox Christian Literature from A.D. 200 to 325: A Theological-Philological Study

In order to present a more balanced ecclesiology, theologians have found it necessary to return to the biblical and traditional theme of communion (koinonia). Research into the early Christian use of the word has thrown a good deal of light on the nature of the unity of the Church and, in particular, on the conditions required in order that Christians may celebrate together the Lord\u27s Supper. It was with this latter problem in mind that the late Werner Elert undertook a patristic study of the relationship between altar fellowship and church fellowship. As he began his research into the theory and practices of Church fellowship, Elert found a rather surprising lack of materials..