Chapter 57

1From then on, let them pray together with all the people. Let the oblation be offered by the deacon, and let the shepherd give thanks.

2The bread is offered as a representation of my body. Let the cup be mixed with wine and water, for it is a sign of the blood and of the washing, so that the inner person, that is, the soul, may also be counted worthy of the corresponding things of the body.

3Let all the people, according to what was said before, receive the offered Eucharist with “Amen.” Let the deacons attend them, as was said before. Let the one who gives the sacrament say, “The body of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, for the healing of soul and body.” Let the one who receives say, “Amen.”

4Whoever spills from the cup gathers judgment upon himself. The same is true of anyone who sees it, remains silent, and does not rebuke the person, whoever it may be.

5Let the priests exhort those who receive the Offering to be careful to do good works, to love strangers, to labor in fasting, and to engage in every good work of service. Let them also be taught about the resurrection of the body. Before anyone receives baptism, let no one know the teaching about the resurrection, for this is the new decree, which has a new name that no one knows except the one who receives it.

6The deacon does not give the Offering to a presbyter. Let him open the dish, and let the presbyter receive. Let the deacon give the Eucharist into the hands of the people. When a presbyter is not present, let the deacon baptize if necessary.