In fact, according to Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), Christianity “is the most persecuted religion in the world,” Larrauri noted, and so “having the first Christians to look to helps us face these circumstances.”
Knowing their example, “even going so far as to give their lives to remain steadfast in their faith, can fill us with strength,” the author pointed out.
4. The Eucharist
From the beginning, the celebration of the Eucharist “played a central role” in the life of the first Christians. “It is wonderful to see the faith and love with which the first Christians treated Jesus in the Eucharistic bread,” Larrauri noted, adding that “it is moving to see how we continue to celebrate the same Mass that was celebrated in the first century.”
5. Loving others
In addition to all this, there was the mutual love, brotherhood, and care they had for each other. For Larrauri, “perhaps the greatest characteristic of the life of the first Christians was how they knew how to love one another. This was to be the sign by which the pagans would recognize them.”
Loving one another as Jesus Christ did “is the legacy they have left us and what we must transmit. It’s not just about philanthropy or humanitarianism: They are willing — as Tertullian said — to give their lives for others,” Larrauri explained.
This story was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA’s Spanish-language news partner. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.
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