The Apostolic Fathers

Epistles of Ignatius

57 chapters Read aloud, 50 min
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Book II · Chapter 8: Encouragement for the Elders and Others

You presbyters, "feed the flock which is among you," until God reveals who is to lead you. For "I am now ready to be offered," that I "may win Christ." Let the deacons understand the dignity of their position and strive to be blameless so they may follow Christ. Let the people be subject to the presbyters and the deacons. Let the virgins be aware of whom they have consecrated themselves to.