The first community
Acts 2:42-47
The first believers in Jesus listened to the apostles, broke bread, prayed together, and shared what they had. They were of one heart and one mind, and no one was in need. Acts 2:42-47
The story, in plain words
Those who had been baptized devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles. Acts 2:42
They broke bread together and prayed. Acts 2:42
This is how the Church understands it: “the breaking of the bread” is what the first Christians called the Eucharist, the Mass. Catechism 1329
The believers lived united and held all things in common. Acts 2:44 They sold their property and divided the money among all, according to what each one needed. Acts 2:45…
The rest of the story is part of the subscription.
See the mapWhat the Bible says
Acts 2:42-47
42And they were persevering in the doctrine of the apostles, and in the communication of the breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43And fear came upon every soul: many wonders also and signs were done by the apostles in Jerusalem, and there was great fear in all. 44And all they that believed, were together, and had all things common. 45Their possessions and goods they sold, and divided them to all, according as every one had need. 46And continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they took their meat with gladness and simplicity of heart; 47Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord increased daily together such as should be saved.
Douay-Rheims Bible (Challoner revision), public domain.
To talk about together
- They were “of one heart and one mind.” What do you think it took to live like that?
- What can we share, as a family, with someone in need?
- For the child: what do you like to share with your friends or your brothers and sisters?