Canon CIII. (Greek
cvi.)
Of the prayers to be said at the Altar.
This
also seemed good, that the
prayers which had been approved in synod should be used by all, whether
prefaces, commendations, or laying on of the hand, and that others
contrary to the faith should not be used by any means, but that those
only should be said which had been collected by the learned.
Notes.
Ancient Epitome of Canon
CIII.
[
The same as the canon, but omits the last
phrase
.]
This canon is Canon ix. of Carthage,
a.d.
407.
Johnson.
That is, such forms fitted for the present time or
occasion, as our Church uses in her Communion Office before the
trisagium, on Christmas, Easter, etc. These prefaces were very
ancient in the Christian church. Prayers used to recommend the
catechumens, penitents, and dying souls to God’s protection were
styled “Commendations.”