White Robed Monks of St. Benedict

Chapters from the Didache on the Eucharist

Underlined phrases are a translation of forms of the Greek word, Eucharist.

Chapter 9

Concerning giving thanks, give thanks in this way. First concerning the cup. We give thanks to you, our Father, for the holy vine of David your son, which you made known to us through Jesus your son. To you be glory forever. (Literally to the Ages). Concerning the broken bread. (No actual word for bread, just broken) We give thanks to you, our father, for life and knowledge, which you made know to us through Jesus your son. To you be glory for ever. Just as this broken bread was scattered upon the mountains and gathered together and became one, so let your church be gathered from the ends of the earth to your kingdom, because yours is the glory and the power through Jesus Christ for ever. Let no-one eat or drink from your Eucharist but those who are baptised in the name of the Lord. For the Lord also spoke about this, 'Do not give that which is holy to dogs'.

Chapter 10

After you have been filled, give thanks in this way. We give thanks to you, holy Father, for your holy name, which you have made dwell in our hearts, and for the knowledge, faith and immortality which you have made known to us through Jesus your child. To you be glory forever. You, all powerful lord, have made all things for the sake of your name. You gave food and drink to men for their enjoyment, so that we might give thanks to you. You have freely give spiritual food and drink and eternal life through you child. Before all thinss, we give thanks to you, that you are powerful. To you be glory for ever. Rember, Lord, your church, to rescue her from all evil and to perfect her in your love, and gather her from the four winds, she how has been made holy, into your kingdom, which you have made ready for her, because yours is the power and the glory forever. Let grace come and let this world pass away. Hosannah to the God of David. If anyone is holy, let him come. If anyone is not, let him repent. Maran Atha. (Aramaic for Lord come) Amen Let the prophets give thanks with what they wish.

Chapter 14

On the Lords day of the Lord, when you have gathered together, break bread (here there is a word for bread) and give thanks, after confessing your failings, so that your (other version is our) sacrifice may be pure. Everyone who has a quarrel with his companion should not come to you, until they have been reconciled, so that you sacrifice may not be defiled. For this is what was said by the Lord. In every place and time, bring an offering to me of a pure sacrifice, because I am a great king, says the Lord, my name is wonderful among the heathens.