Letter 126: Theodore Studite, Letter 126; Greek heading: Θαδδαίῳ τέκνῳ καὶ ὁμολογητῇ.

O Thaddaeus, soldier of Christ, my beloved child, man of steadfast heart, I embrace you through this letter as though from my own lips; I enfold you in the arms of my heart. I have rejoiced, and rejoiced beyond measure, at your good courage, O you who are nobler than those from the risings of the sun, more eloquent and wiser than the well-spoken orators. For what does it matter that some have been made foolish, more irrational than the beasts, having become deniers of Christ like Orestes and Aphrates [iconoclast persecutors], sons of darkness, while you, on his behalf, are in prison and ill-treatment, and this while speaking boldly and burning with zeal? Oh, your noble submission, which has led you into these straits! Still, my child, endure, contend in the struggle, hold out so that you may be crowned, answering prudently, conducting yourself with humble-mindedness, passing through with hope, choosing even to pour out your blood through slaughter for God's sake, which indeed you do choose, as I know you. Pray also for me, the lowly one, that I may be saved. Brother Nicholas greets you.