Letter 229: Theodore Studite, Letter 229; Greek heading: Ὑπατίσσῃ.

I have read the letter of your honored self, and concerning your health I, lowly as I am, gave glory to God; but by health I do not mean so much that of the body (for there are times when this is even unprofitable to some, when it does not serve the working of virtue), but rather that of the soul; for this is always to be prayed for. From what is it known? From the fact that you keep yourself unharmed, by the fear of God and by orthodox faith, from communion with the Christ-fighting heresy [the iconoclasts, who waged war against Christ depicted in icons]. In these things I too rejoice, being the trainer [aleiptes, literally the one who anoints athletes for the contest] of such a God-minded woman. But over your affliction I grieved with you beyond measure, since you are being tested by calamity upon calamity. I pray therefore, as the least of men, that the grievous things which have befallen you may be scattered by the mercy of God, both as regards your children and as regards your servants. But do you, O venerable lady, bear your afflictions with thanksgiving, because "whom the Lord loves he chastens" [Hebrews 12:6], since it is through afflictions that one is to attain eternal life; yet (I remind you) act with forbearance toward those under your hand, "forbearing threatening," as the Apostle says, "knowing that the Lord both of you and of them is in heaven" [Ephesians 6:9]. I know, however, that you are humane in what concerns them. And do not be burdened by this loving reminder. In all things, then, may my Lord keep you free from affliction, prospering in the path of his commandments.