A method for joining multiple ceramic components together is disclosed in one embodiment of the invention as including providing multiple ceramic components, each having a mating surface. A slip containing a mixture of alumina powder and a phosphate-containing reagent is applied to one or more of the mating surfaces. The mean particle size of the alumina powder is tailored to provide improved strength to the bond. Once the slip is applied, the ceramic components may be joined together at their mating surfaces. The joint may then be sintered to react the constituents in the mixture and thereby generate a bond between the ceramic components.