Ethiopic Didascalia

Ethiopic Didascalia — Platt English translation page 96

the first man was cast forth, when he consented to the counsel of the serpent, and transgressed the commandment of the Lord. And afterwards let the Priest arise ; and let them offer up a sacrifice unto the Lord with fear and trembling. And then let the Deacons arise, and command them to be silent ; and let the Deacon who stands with the Bishop say thus to the people, that no man let revenge dwell in his heart, unto hatred or envy against his neighbour. And then let the people salute one another with a holy kiss ; and in like manner let the women also salute each other : but salute not one another deceitfully, as Judas Iscariot, who kissed our Lord. And afterwards let the Deacon pray and make supplica- tion for all that are in the church, for the fruits of the earth, and for the King, and for the Priests, for the Rulers and Chief Priests, and for peace upon the Holy Apostolic Church. And after this, let the Chief Priest pray and offer supplication that peace may be upon the people. And then let him bless them, as Moses commanded that the Priests should bless the people, saying thus. The Lord bless thee and keep thee, and make his face to shine upon thee, and save thee, and give thee peace, and have mercy upon thee ! And after this let the Bishop pray, and say. Save thy people, and bless thine inheritance! feed them, and lift them up for ever ! for it is thy Holy Church, which thou hast purchased by thy name, and 96