"Let that be deemed a proper Eucharist, which is administered
either by the bishop, or by one to whom he has entrusted it." St. Ignatius of Antioch
("The Epistle to the Smyrnaeans," c. 105 A.D.)
"And on the day called Sunday, all who live in cities or in the
country gather together to one place. And the memoirs of the Apostles or the
writings of the Prophets are read, as long as time permits. Then, when the reader
has ceased, the priest verbally instructs us and exhorts us to imitate these good
things. Then we all rise together and pray. And, as we said before, when our
prayer is ended, bread and wine and water are brought. Then, the priest in like
manner offers prayers and thanksgivings, according to his ability. And the people
assent, saying 'Amen.' Then, the Eucharist, is distributed to everyone, and everyone
participates in that over which thanks has been given. And a portion of it is sent
by the deacons to those who are absent." St. Justin Martyr ("First Apology," c.
160 A.D.)
