Epistles

Wherever the bishop appears let the congregation be present; just as wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church. It is not lawful either to baptise or to hold an agape[*](Agapé means love: the name was given to some kind of religious meal. The context here suggests that it is a synonym for the Eucharist, but the point is doubted by some scholars. In the A.V. of Jud. 12 it is translated Love feasts.) without the bishop; but whatever he approve, this is also pleasing to God, that everything which you do may be secure and valid.

Moreover it is reasonable for us to return to[*](Honour due to the Bishop) soberness, while we still have time to repent towards God. It is good to know God and the bishop. He who honours the bishop has been honoured by God; he who does anything without the knowledge of the