In the early second century, bishops had priests as helpers offering Mass.

In the early second century, bishops had priests as helpers offering Mass.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Somewhat

Answer: (A)

In the early second century, Christian communities were led by a bishop who presided over the local church, with a group of presbyters (priests) and deacons serving alongside him. The Eucharist (what you’re calling Mass) was celebrated under the bishop’s oversight, and the presbyters helped carry it out alongside him. This arrangement is described by early writers like Ignatius of Antioch and reflected in the Didache, showing a clear structure where priests assisted the bishop in liturgical duties. So, the statement is accurate: bishops had priests as helpers to offer the Eucharist. (Note: the term Mass is a later designation, but the practice of the bishop presiding with priestly helpers fits the period.)

In the early second century, Christian communities were led by a bishop who presided over the local church, with a group of presbyters (priests) and deacons serving alongside him. The Eucharist (what you’re calling Mass) was celebrated under the bishop’s oversight, and the presbyters helped carry it out alongside him. This arrangement is described by early writers like Ignatius of Antioch and reflected in the Didache, showing a clear structure where priests assisted the bishop in liturgical duties. So, the statement is accurate: bishops had priests as helpers to offer the Eucharist. (Note: the term Mass is a later designation, but the practice of the bishop presiding with priestly helpers fits the period.)