A new eucharist

Whatever else you can say about religion, particularly in the West, they certainly know how to do symbolism. This isn't unique to religion, of course, but equally there's no reason why religion should be excluded from universal human truths. For example, take the candle. You'll find this at many formal Christian or Jewish ceremonies, as well as in the logo of Amnesty International. It stands as a universal symbol of the human spirit, of life and the aspiration to beauty and justice.

Circles, particularly when they are composed of people, speak of equality in a community, and of completeness. They suggest a willingness to listen and be heard. Witness by contrast the physical organisation of the House of Commons in the UK, where opposite sides are ranged against each other in a battle formation.

The table is another symbol of sharing, family and equal-ness, well used in the Christian tradition in the Eucharist, but still capable of dividing those who may come to the table from those who may not.

So, how about a new form of the old rite? One where we all sit around a circular table, with a single candle in the middle, bring food and drink if we can, but only eat what was brought by someone else, and celebrate the great feast of life. No exclusions, no rules, no high table. That would be worth getting up on a Sunday for.