The writing “Didache” or “Teacher” comes from around the year 100 -give or take.  I often wonder about how the services of the early church compares to our present day liturgy.

The following is from Didache.

This is how to give thanks: first in connection with the cup:

“We thank you, our Father, for the holy vine of David, your child, which you have revealed through Jesus, your child.  To you be glory forever.”

In connection with the piece (of bread):

“We thank you, our Father, for the life and knowledge which you have reveled through Jesus, your child.  To you be glory…

As this piece was scattered over the hills and then was brought together and made one, so let your Church be brought together from the ends of the earth into your kingdom.  For yours is the glory and the power through Jesus Christ forever.”

(Only the baptized is allowed to take the sacrament.  After they finished the sacrament a grace was said).

“We thank you, holy Father, for your sacred name which you have lodged in our hearts, and for the knowledge and faith and immortality which you have revealed through Jesus, your child.  To you be glory…

Almighty Master, ‘you created everything’ for the sake of your name, have given men food and drink to enjoy that they may thank you.  But to us you have given spiritual food and drink and eternal life through Jesus, your child.

Above all, we thank you that you are mighty.  To you be glory forever.

Remember, Lord, your Church, to save it from all evil, and to make it perfect by your love.  Make it holy, ‘and gather’ it ‘together from the four winds’ into your Kingdom which you have made ready for it.  For yours is the power and the glory forever.

Let this Grace come and let this world pass away.

Hosanna to the God of David.