This liturgical guide has been reconstructed from historical records, eyewitness accounts, theologians and the scriptures of Paul the Apostle. It is designed to be used in conjunction with The Very First Bible of 144 A.D. (TheVeryFirstBible.org) and will teach you how to conduct a simple mass during times of persecution and oppression just as the first Christians did. You will also learn how to conduct a Christian baptism, following the ancient rites and sacraments.
In the Beginning…
At the dawn of Christianity very few structures were set aside for the sole purpose of conducting mass and purpose- built churches were few and far between. Instead, larger private homes were used and the mass was presided over by a ‘Presbyter’ - usually the owner of the home. A typical mass would consist of under ten people worshiping together. As dark times descend on Christians and mainstream churches abandon their flock to the whims of tyrannical governments or to the physical destruction of houses of worship, ordinary people will need to host and preside over services. If you are called to become a Christian leader in your community you will need to know how to conduct a simple mass and lead others in prayer with the confidence that you’re following the liturgical rites and teachings of the first Christians.
Who?
Any baptized Christian man who believes Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that God was revealed through Him is qualified to lead a simple Mass. He will assume the title of Presbyter. The Mass as structured is non-denominational and does not favor one ‘brand’ of Christianity over another.
Where?
Any home with a space large enough to accommodate up to ten people. Ideally, the home will have a large C-shaped couch or seating area. In some cases, Mass will have to be conducted underground in a ‘catacomb church’ like those used by the Christian Russians under Bolshevik persecution.
When?
The first Christians met twice on Sunday - first at dawn for a Service of the Word with prayer and an oath not to partake in theft or adultery and again at the end of the day for Mass and a meal which was both real and sacramental. It symbolizes fellowship, sharing, unity and brotherhood. Saturday is a day of fasting.
Historical Note: This liturgical guide reflects the sacraments and rites as they were performed by the first Christians, predating the formation of the Roman Catholic Church in 380 A.D. Many of these first Christians, such as the Marcionites, rejected the Hebrew bible (Old Testament) and the deity portrayed within it as antithetical to the teachings of Christ. As a result, references and allusions to that subject will not be found in the guide.
The first Christians fasted on Saturday and celebrated Mass on Sunday.
View Sunday Mass Walkthrough
View Baptism Walkthrough
