Letter 226: Theodore Studite, Letter 226; Greek heading: Ἰγνατίῳ τέκνῳ.

From your letter I behold your heart, my good Ignatius, and I rejoice indeed in your confidence and your sincere love, but I am grieved that, although I am not worthy, I have such sons loving me in the Lord, men who set everything before them for my sake, wretch that I am, so that, if it were possible, you would even have dug out your own eyes and given them to me. Who among the disciples is held in such esteem as I, and who is more lowly than I because of my sins? No one. But pray, my child, and pray earnestly that I may walk uprightly, so that in me you may have not a reproach but a boast; and I for my part exhort you, through our Lord Jesus Christ, you the topmost branches [chief members] of the brotherhood, to be steadfast now, unshakable in the faith, abounding always in the work of the Lord, so that from you uprightness may come to those who are subordinate. May you be exemplars to all of good works and of strength; watch those who are falling into impiety and be fearful, or rather, attentive, fervent of heart, ready to teach and to rouse those near you, so that you may be crowned day by day. You have ministered to me, my child, with the four [the four garments or items sent], but I have sent them back again, so that you may complete them and send them to me. Your brothers who are with me greet you.