The Canons of Hippolytus is a “church order,” partly derived from the Traditio apostolica (Apostolic Tradition [Traditio Apostolica]), though also containing additional material of independent origin. It thus discusses ordinations, catechumenate and baptism, ritual meals, and daily prayer (in reworking its source), and adds further discussion of the place of women, asceticism, the duties of the clergy, and the church's provision of poor relief.

In following its source, the Canons of Hippolytus is l…