Letter 87: Theophilus informs Jerome that he has expelled the Origenists from the monasteries of Nitria, and urges him to show his zeal for the faith by writing against the prevalent heresy. The date of the letter is 400 A.D. Theophilus, bishop, to the well-beloved and most loving brother, the presbyter Jerome.
Letter 87: From Theophilus to Jerome (400 AD)
[Theophilus, the bishop of Alexandria, informs Jerome that he has expelled the Origenist monks from the monasteries of Nitria and urges him to demonstrate his zeal by writing against the heresy.]
Theophilus, bishop, to the beloved and most loving brother, the priest Jerome.
The reverend bishop Agatho and the beloved deacon Athanasius are accredited to you with news about the church. When you learn what has happened, I have no doubt you will approve my decision and rejoice in the church's victory. For we have cut down the thorns of heresy in the monasteries of Nitria, and the garden of the Lord is now being restored. I urge you to use the gifts God has given you — your pen and your learning — in the service of the faith. Write against this pestilent heresy, so that those in the West who have been deceived may learn the truth from your writings.
Human translation — New Advent (NPNF / ANF series)
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