Eucharistic Prayer I — the "Roman Canon" — is the longest and most ancient of the Church's Eucharistic Prayers. Here's what it is, why it's called the "Canon," and the saints and sacrifices woven into it.
Eucharistic Prayer I (The Roman Canon): The Oldest and Longest Eucharistic Prayer
Eucharistic Prayer I — the venerable "Roman Canon" — is the longest of the four Eucharistic Prayers, with parts witnessed as early as St. Ambrose in the 4th century and shaped over the centuries by a line of popes (down to John XXIII, who added St. Joseph). In this session of The Mass Explained, Dr. Brant Pitre explains why it is called the "Canon" (the "rule" of prayer), and walks through its structure — the "Te igitur" ("To you, therefore," whose opening "T" was seen as the shape of the Cross, echoing the taw marked on the faithful in Ezekiel 9), the twin lists of twelve apostles and twelve Roman martyrs, and the great remembrance of the living and the dead. He then draws out its biblical heart: the offering of the "holy and unblemished sacrifice" set beside the Old Testament sacrifices of Abel, Abraham, and Melchizedek (Genesis 4; 14; 22), and the angel who bears the offering to the "altar on high" with the "prayers of the saints" (Revelation 8:3–4).
Key passages & sources examined: the sacrifices of Abel, Melchizedek, and Abraham (Genesis 4:4; 14:18; 22:1–14); the angel and the golden altar in heaven (Revelation 8:3–4); the taw / cross mark of Ezekiel 9:4 (the "Te igitur"); St. Ambrose's 4th-century witness to the Canon's words (On the Sacraments); and the Council of Trent (1562) on the Roman Canon.
What is the "Roman Canon"? Eucharistic Prayer I, the longest and most ancient of the Mass's Eucharistic Prayers, especially suited to Sundays and feasts.
Why is it called the "Canon"? From the word for "rule" — the fixed "rule" of the Roman Mass; parts of it date at least to St. Ambrose in the 4th century.
Which saints and sacrifices are named in it? Twelve apostles and twelve Roman martyrs, and the Old Testament sacrifices of Abel, Abraham, and Melchizedek (Genesis 4; 14; 22).
Is the Roman Canon still used? Yes — it remains Eucharistic Prayer I in the current Roman Missal.
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I told him I do not know what I would do without all the knowledge I have gained from this program. Period. Dr. Grant Pitre is phenomenal and an excellent teacher.
This video series helped me to more deeply enter into Mass. Understanding the biblical and historical context brings me attention back to the altar, even when the kiddos are at their most distracting!
This supported by doctrine study illuminates a personal struggle and provides the necessary coping mechanisms to overcome adversity. Doctor Brant has an exquisite methodology of presenting the material in an informative manner that keeps you engaged in the discussion.
Love this subscription. Dr Pitre’s explanations are so understandable and helpful. Michael in customer service is always available and quickly answers any questions I might have.
I told him I do not know what I would do without all the knowledge I have gained from this program. Period. Dr. Grant Pitre is phenomenal and an excellent teacher.
This video series helped me to more deeply enter into Mass. Understanding the biblical and historical context brings me attention back to the altar, even when the kiddos are at their most distracting!
This supported by doctrine study illuminates a personal struggle and provides the necessary coping mechanisms to overcome adversity. Doctor Brant has an exquisite methodology of presenting the material in an informative manner that keeps you engaged in the discussion.
Love this subscription. Dr Pitre’s explanations are so understandable and helpful. Michael in customer service is always available and quickly answers any questions I might have.
