“seven-action scheme” of the rite then inaugurated. Our Lord (1) took bread; (2) “gave thanks” over it; (3) broke it; (4) distributed it, saying certain words. Later He (5) took a cup; (6) “gave thanks” over that; (7) handed it to His disciples, saying certain words . . . . With absolute unanimity the liturgical tradition reproduced these seven actions as four: (1) The offertory; bread and wine are “taken” and placed on the table together. (2) The prayer; the president gives thanks to God over bread and wine together. (3) The fraction; the bread is broken. (4) The communion; the bread and wine
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