Letter 80: Cyprian to Sergius and Rogatianus, and to the rest of the confessors in the Lord — everlasting health.

Cyprian to Sergius and Rogatianus, and to the rest of the confessors in the Lord — everlasting health. I greet you, dearest and most blessed brothers, longing myself to see you — if the condition of my present situation would permit me to come. For what could happen to me more welcome, more joyful, than to be now close to you? To be embraced by those hands which, pure and innocent, have refused the impious sacrifice? What more sublime than to kiss those lips which, with a voice of glory, have confessed the Lord? To be looked upon by those eyes which, despising the world, have become worthy of looking upon God? But since the opportunity is not given me to share that joy, I send this letter in my place, to your ears and your eyes — to congratulate you and to urge you to persevere, strong and steady, in the confession of the heavenly glory. Having entered on the way of the Lord's condescension, go forward in the strength of the Spirit, to receive the crown — the Lord himself being your protector and guide, who said: "I am with you always, to the end of the age." O blessed prison, which your presence has enlightened! O blessed prison, which sends the servants of God to heaven! O darkness, more bright than the sun itself, clearer than the light of this world — in which now are placed the temples of God, and your members are consecrated as shrines of the Holy Spirit! The dungeon that once held murderers and robbers now holds confessors. The chains once fastened on criminals now hold holy and innocent members of Christ. How different is the cause, how different the mind, how different the courage of those who dwell there now! What shall I say of the sharp, biting hunger, of the thirst, of the squalor of the place, and of the miseries of that prison? All of this, in proportion as it is heavier to bear, so much the more is it proof of faith and warrant of future crowns. Though the Lord never forsakes his servants, but with a generous and patient love always stands by, defends, and protects, yet the particular crowns of confession come from the endurance of affliction. The suffering must precede the glory; the affliction must come before the joy. Stand firm. The Master who sees your suffering will repay it with that which no eye has seen and no ear has heard.

Epistle 80