Letter 253: Theodore Studite, Letter 253; Greek heading: Ἰωάννῃ τέκνῳ.

I have recognized the force of your letter, my child, and I have given thanks to my God that you are kept unharmed, having been rescued from the hand of your persecutors. See, then, how you sit, lest you be caught again; but if it should somehow come to pass, make firm your soul, my child, to endure all things for the name of God, looking above all to your brothers who have contended [in the contest of confession] and who are still contending. The one who believes is strong for all things in Christ who strengthens him, who also called you, in the seat of the presbyters [the rank of priest], to praise him. Live in a priestly manner; be reverent, cleansing yourself, so that, being pure, you may draw near to the Pure One. Pray also concerning us, that we may be saved, that our deeds may set their seal upon our words, since I am a sinful man. The Lord be with your spirit.