Письмо 231

Thank you for congratulating me on my fast and for all your well wishes; mutually, I congratulate you as we mark the first week of Holy Lent; May the Lord grant you the opportunity to pass the rest of this time pleasing God, and with all your flock. Leave apologies for your silence; Do you really doubt my disposition towards you according to Bose? I'm not looking for political greetings; and if anyone needs anything from my badness, I answer with love, as God will enlighten those who ask, according to the faith. - The most merciful Lord, who protects your monastery and you, may have announced to your Lord to free you from the maiden L.; but his silence worries you: rest assured, the letters may have convinced him of the opposite opinion, as he had about her repentance. However, I also agree with the opinion of Father M. that if he insists on this, then we cannot resist, apparently we cannot be without care; one did not pass, and the other caused confusion by the enemy: by the permission of God and L. caused a deep wound to your heart; only God covered with His mercy, did not allow further bad consequences, and did not allow rumors to spread. Of course, it is no small sorrow for you to see such a disorganized situation and bad will; But involuntarily, is it possible to force one to confront such strong passions, and moreover, when there is still no humility and voluntary abstinence. Another sorrow: if the temptation becomes known to the sisters at your side, how can you catch those like them in weakness and in feeble will? But may the Lord and the Most Pure Mother of God protect you from all the arrows, deceits and slander of the enemy. I don’t know what measures you took to admonish the young ascetic, and whether she has proper repentance and the intention to begin not to offend and preserve herself. Do not leave in your prayers the one who wishes you peace of health and salvation and who remains with the lowest reverence, unworthy of your pilgrim, the great sinner I.M. Do not be overwhelmed by sorrows - for through many sorrows it is fitting for us to enter the kingdom of God (Acts 14:22). – God loves you, visiting you with them, and teaching you art. March 2, 1843. You might be interested in: