By Kiara B.
On Didache
The Didache goes into the specifics of baptism, which was to be ideally in running cold water, but any water would suffice. Two days before the baptism the subject had to fast as to cleanse but not with the hypocrites. With this, the writer makes a distinction on who was allowed to be baptized. This sense of exclusivity is common in the rituals. The Eucharist is mentioned as life and knowledge, which God reveals through Jesus. The writer then provides the correct concluding thoughts of gratitude for the Eucharist. This is one of the many examples of guidelines the Church and most Christian families follow in terms of prayers and rituals.
On Justin: First Apology:
The writer justifies the seemingly normal, law-abiding life of Christians with examples of rituals. Baptism, in this account, is referred to as a rebirth and that Jesus takes those who are born again. More than just an entry into the faith, this can be seen as a step closer to salvation, a cleansing of an old evil self into a fresh, new slate that will set out to do good. The author refers to this old self as evil because we are conceived and brought up by the “wicked behavior” of our parents. After this ritual, the baptized should go into what the writer is referring to as the first church ceremony, which includes the breaking of the bread and wine. Here they offer prayers for the community and others. After this, they all kiss and recite “Amen” which means, “so be it.” Again, the notion of the exclusivity of the ritual is presented when they distribute the Eucharist. Only the true believers get to take the bread and wine. These two symbolize Jesus’ body and blood which nourish and the person and created an instant flesh connection with the savior. Even though there is no mention of a priest, the one conducting the ceremony quotes Jesus to give a sense of unification with Him. Lastly, the writer alludes to rules they should follow: aid the poor, pray, give thanks and contribute their prosperity. These rituals remain at the core of most Christian beliefs and ceremonies.
On Didache
The Didache goes into the specifics of baptism, which was to be ideally in running cold water, but any water would suffice. Two days before the baptism the subject had to fast as to cleanse but not with the hypocrites. With this, the writer makes a distinction on who was allowed to be baptized. This sense of exclusivity is common in the rituals. The Eucharist is mentioned as life and knowledge, which God reveals through Jesus. The writer then provides the correct concluding thoughts of gratitude for the Eucharist. This is one of the many examples of guidelines the Church and most Christian families follow in terms of prayers and rituals.
On Justin: First Apology:
The writer justifies the seemingly normal, law-abiding life of Christians with examples of rituals. Baptism, in this account, is referred to as a rebirth and that Jesus takes those who are born again. More than just an entry into the faith, this can be seen as a step closer to salvation, a cleansing of an old evil self into a fresh, new slate that will set out to do good. The author refers to this old self as evil because we are conceived and brought up by the “wicked behavior” of our parents. After this ritual, the baptized should go into what the writer is referring to as the first church ceremony, which includes the breaking of the bread and wine. Here they offer prayers for the community and others. After this, they all kiss and recite “Amen” which means, “so be it.” Again, the notion of the exclusivity of the ritual is presented when they distribute the Eucharist. Only the true believers get to take the bread and wine. These two symbolize Jesus’ body and blood which nourish and the person and created an instant flesh connection with the savior. Even though there is no mention of a priest, the one conducting the ceremony quotes Jesus to give a sense of unification with Him. Lastly, the writer alludes to rules they should follow: aid the poor, pray, give thanks and contribute their prosperity. These rituals remain at the core of most Christian beliefs and ceremonies.