Posted by Julie [Julie] on March 27, 1999 at 15:31:07 {RyqclwWKXQ0DZuGWYHYwMWJs32JBxNwbk}:
It's almost Memorial time! I found this writing by Justin Martyr and was wondering what any JWs might think of it in comparison to how the WT observes the Memorial.
It says this was written to the pagan emperor Antoninus Pius (138-161) aroung the year 155, explaining what Christians did:
"On the day we call the day of the sun, all who dwell in the city or country gather in the same place.
The memiors of the apostles and the writings of the prophets are read, as much as time permits.
When the reader has finished, he who presides over those gathered admonishes and challenges them to imitate these beautiful things.
Then we all rise together and offer prayers for ourselves.....and for all others, wherever they may be, so that we may be found righteous in our life and actions, and faithful to the commandments, so as to obtain eternal salvation.
When prayers are concluded we exchange the kiss.
Then someone brings bread and a cup of water and wine mixed together to him who presides over the brethern.
He 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 that we have been judged worthy of these gifts.
When he has concluded the prayers and thanksgivings, all present give voice to the acclamation by saying 'Amen.'
When he who presides has given thanks and the people have responded, those whom we call deacons give to those present the 'eucharisted' bread, wine and water and take them to those who are absent."
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So, according to this, here was the established tradition by the year 155. What are your thoughts on this?
Julie