The Last Communion of Saint Jerome: The Eucharist, Monasticism, and Priesthood in the Life of a Church Father

The Last Communion of Saint Jerome

By Fr. Basil J. Nixen, OSB · Published by TAN Books

Overview

In The Last Communion of Saint Jerome, history, tradition, Scripture, and sacred art converge to form a profound meditation on the Eucharistic life of one of the Church’s greatest Doctors. While no eyewitness account records St. Jerome’s final moments, Christian tradition has long contemplated his death with reverence: the monk-scholar receiving Viaticum, surrounded by angels, and departing this life with the Word of God on his lips.

This tradition becomes the gateway to something deeper. Drawing directly from Jerome’s own writings, including his biblical commentaries, letters, and theological reflections, this work reveals a soul formed entirely by the mystery of the Eucharist. The book moves beyond legend into substance, showing how Jerome understood Scripture itself through the lens of Christ’s Real Presence.

Here, the Eucharist is not an isolated devotion. It is the center. The key. The reality that unites Word and Sacrament into one living mystery. This work does not merely inform the intellect. It calls the reader to recover reverence, clarity, and hunger for the Body of Christ.

• Understand the Eucharist: Learn how it stands at the center of Christian life and theology.
• Read Scripture Correctly: Discover how the Real Presence illuminates the Word of God.
• Deepen Devotion: Grow in reverence for Holy Communion and Viaticum.
• Engage Tradition: See how sacred art and historical memory shape Catholic belief.
• Think with the Fathers: Enter into the theological vision of St. Jerome.

From the Tradition

“Since the flesh of the Lord is true food, and his blood is true drink… this alone is our good in the present age, if we are nourished by his flesh and drink his blood.”

Intended Audience

This book is ideal for Catholics seeking a deeper theological and spiritual understanding of the Eucharist, especially those drawn to Scripture, the Church Fathers, and serious Catholic theology.

It is not a light devotional. It is a rich and demanding meditation that engages both the intellect and the soul.

Practical use cases include Eucharistic study, personal meditation, parish reading groups, seminary formation, and theological reflection.

FAQs

Is this book historical or devotional?
It is both. It blends historical sources, theological analysis, and devotional reflection into one unified work.

Does it rely only on legend?
No. While it draws from tradition, it is firmly grounded in St. Jerome’s authentic writings and Church teaching.

What makes this book unique?
It presents St. Jerome as a profoundly Eucharistic theologian, showing how the Eucharist unlocks the meaning of Scripture.