Homilies

Homilies are a type of early Christian writing that originated from the Greek word "homilia," meaning discourse or conversation. These writings typically took the form of a short sermon, often delivered by clergy to provide moral guidance or uplift. Early Christian literature, including homilies, was primarily intended to edify or convert, rather than for aesthetic purposes. For example, Melito of Sardis wrote a "Homily on the Pascha" around 170 CE. These discourses were part of early Christian worship, which also included instruction (catechesis), baptism, and the Eucharist.123