Theodoret of Cyrrhus → Pompianus, of Emesa

Theodoret to Ibas, Bishop of Edessa.

What I have long feared has now come to pass. The enemies of the true faith, emboldened by the silence of those who should resist them, press their advantage with growing audacity. Yet I take comfort in the knowledge that Your Holiness stands firm, a rock amid the rising tide.

I ask you to receive the bearer of this letter with your customary kindness. He is a man of proven piety who has been driven from his home by the violence of the times. Commend him to such of your brethren as may be able to assist him, and in doing so you will lay up treasure where moth and rust do not corrupt.

The times demand vigilance and courage. Let us not fail the truth that has been entrusted to us.