26 January 2017

On Division

Let us intercede for those who are involved in some transgression,

that forbearance and humility may be given them, so that they may

submit, not to us but to the will of God. For in this way the merciful

remembrance of them in the presence of God and all saints will

be fruitful and perfect for them. Let us accept correction, which

no one ought to resent, dear friends. The reproof which we give

one another is good and exceedingly useful, for it unites us with

the will of God. For thus says the Holy Word: "The Lord has indeed

disciplined me, but has not handed me over to death."

                                                                          ST. CLEMENT OF ROME

6 January 2017

A Strange New Flood

Come then and see, this new and strange flood, greater and more

 powerful than that which occurred in the days of Noah. There the

water of the flood destroyed the human race; but here the water

of baptism, by the power of him who is baptized in it, has called

back the dead to life. There the dove carried the olive branch in its

beak, denoting the fragrance of the sweet-smelling savor of the Lord

Christ, but here the Holy Spirit, descending in the form of a dove,

reveals to us the presence of our merciful God.

                                                   Proclus, Patriarch of Constantinople