"Our ignorance, O holy brothers, has
cast as much light for you as it could on the knowledge and teaching of
the illustrious fathers. Even if perchance our unskilled language has
confused it instead of clarifying it, I pray that our blameworthy
rudeness not nullify the renown of our Judge to lay bare this
magnificent teaching, if one reflects upon its sublime insights, the
offensive boorishness of our words cannot hinder the reader's profit.
And we ourselves are concerned more about usefulness than renown. To be
sure, I advise all into whose hands these little works may fall to
realize that whatever is pleasing in them is from the fathers, whereas
whatever is displeasing is ours" (17.30.3).
"It remains for the spiritual zephyr of
your prayers to accompany me now, tossed about as I have been thus far
by a most dangerous tempest, to the safe harbor of silence" (24.26.19).
The main purpose of this weblog's short run was to increase awareness of St. John Cassian and his works, especially for Christians in the Western Hemisphere. Hopefully it has fulfilled its purpose for at least a few people.
The main purpose of this weblog's short run was to increase awareness of St. John Cassian and his works, especially for Christians in the Western Hemisphere. Hopefully it has fulfilled its purpose for at least a few people.
Since this blog has nothing of its own to contribute, it is better for it to remain silent. Moreover, it is best to read St. John's actual works rather than poor summaries of his works. These brief summaries were intended to encourage people to read the actual conferences.
The Conferences should be read with attention by all who desire union with God. They are even more helpful when they are read indefinitely alongside the Holy Scriptures. For Christians they should be required reading, yet they have been sadly neglected. Perhaps, St. John will enjoy a wider readership in the future.
Our God-bearing Father John Cassian, pray to Christ our God to grant us His great mercy.
The Conferences should be read with attention by all who desire union with God. They are even more helpful when they are read indefinitely alongside the Holy Scriptures. For Christians they should be required reading, yet they have been sadly neglected. Perhaps, St. John will enjoy a wider readership in the future.
Our God-bearing Father John Cassian, pray to Christ our God to grant us His great mercy.