Have you ever wondered how the first Christians worshiped? I have, and its actually fairly interesting. Today, with all the different denominations arguing about “proper worship” and what “best way to glorify Jesus”, it would be nice to know how they did it way back in the early days. Well, luckily, there are the writings of an early Christian, Justin Martyr who wrote out exactly how they spent their Sunday.

On the day we call the day of the sun, all who dwell in the city or country gather in the same place.

The memoirs 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 by our life and actions, and faithful to the commandments, so as to obtain eternal salvation.

When the 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 brethren.

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 (in Greek: eucharistian) that we have been judged worthy of these gifts.

When he has concluded the prayers and thanksgivings, all present give voice to an 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.

If you are a Catholic, it is obvious how they celebrated. It is the Catholic Mass. It isn’t a “worship service”. It isn’t a “praise and worship” event. It is a Mass.

Jesus Christ founded the Catholic Church and the Catholic Mass follows all that Jesus taught us. If you want to be a follower of Christ, then you must likewise be a follower of His Church.