Day of the Sun

St. Justin Martyr (100-165AD) was a philosopher who sought truth and found it in Christ Jesus.

He bequeaths to us the earliest description of the Eucharistic Sacrificial Celebration (Mass):

On the day, we call the day of the sun, all who dwell in the city or country gather in the same place.

The memoirs of the apostles and the writings of the prophets are read.

We offer prayers for ourselves and for all others. We then exchange the kiss of peace.

Then someone brings bread and a cup of water and wine mixed together.

The presider takes them and offers praise and glory to the Father of the universe, through the name of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and for a considerable time he gives thanks.

When he has concluded, all give voice by saying: ‘Amen.’

Those whom we call deacons give to those present the ‘eucharisted’ bread, wine and water and take them to those who are absent.

This is exactly what we do:

We gather. Celebrate the Liturgy of the Word and the Eucharist. Receive the Body and Blood of Jesus. Go forth.

Thus giving life to the world (John 6).

Amen.