Chapter 22

1Let him be constant at the altar and persistent in prayer day and night, especially at the obligatory hours of the night: at the first hour, at midnight, and at early twilight when the morning star rises. Let him also pray in the morning, at the third, sixth, and ninth hours, and at the twelfth hour, when the lamps are lit. If he also offers prayers without ceasing at every hour for the people and for himself, he does well.

2Let him remain alone in the house of the Church. If he has one or two like-minded … with him, it is good for him to be with them in united supplication. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, you know that I have said to you, “I am in their midst.” But if he cannot remain all night long, let him at least remain during the hours I have named, for then the angels visit the Church.

3Let him fast three days each week throughout the year. For three weeks after his appointment, let him maintain the fast according to the number of the eighteen Exalted Entrances through which the Only-Begotten passed when he came to the Passion. But on the first day of the week, let him eat only bread with oil, honey, and salt, and every kind of tree fruit. Let him by no means taste wine, except for the cup of the Offering. Let him use this whether sick or well, for it is good that this should be for the priests alone.

4After these weeks, let him fast three days each week throughout the year, and during the rest of the time let him fast according to his strength. But by no means let him eat meat—not because he is to be blamed if he tastes or eats meat, but because these strong foods are not fitting when he embraces infirmity, and so that he may keep watch.

5Let the Offering be made only on Saturday, on the first day of the week, or on a fast day. On the eve, let him instruct and teach these things as mysteries to those whom he has tested as having ears to hear.

6But if he is physically sick, let him quickly take care to heal himself, eating fish and regularly taking a little wine of the Holy Thing, so that the Church may not also come to an end because he lies sick, but so that those who learn may receive joy.

7When teaching in the Church, let him speak carefully, as one who knows that he is proclaiming as a testimony the accurately written doctrine concerning the whole ministry of the Father of all. Let him say all these things—all that he accurately knows and remembers from ancient times. For if he understands what he says, he may hope that his hearers will also understand these things. With all his effort, let him beseech the Lord that his word may bear the fruits of the Holy Spirit in those who hear.

8Let him do everything in order and with knowledge. After admonishing the catechumens with meditations and admonitions from the Prophets and Apostles, and with instructive words so that they may know him whom they confess, let him dismiss them. Then let him teach the faithful in the manner of a mystery, after first dismissing the catechumens. After instruction in the mysteries, let him offer, so that, knowing the mystery in which they are taking part, they may offer with fear.