Words of the Fathers, Part 2
1. Introduction to Theologian Fathers and Pre-Nicene Writers
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III spoke about the Fathers who wrote in theology—some defending the Christian faith generally, and others confronting specific heresies. He emphasized that Coptic Orthodox theology is rooted in the teachings of the early Fathers who preserved the true faith from distortion.
2. The Fathers Who Defended the Faith
He mentioned prominent Fathers such as St. Gregory Nazianzen, called The Theologian; St. Athanasius the Apostolic, who wrote On the Incarnation and Against the Arians; and St. Basil the Great, who wrote extensively on theology, asceticism, and liturgy. These, with Gregory of Nyssa and Gregory the Theologian, were known as the “Three Cappadocian Fathers.”
3. The Depth of Orthodox Teaching
Pope Shenouda highlighted St. Cyril the Great, Pillar of Faith, who wrote the “Twelve Anathemas” against Nestorius, defending the doctrine of the union of divinity and humanity in Christ. He explained that Nestorius erred by separating the two natures and refusing to call the Virgin Mary Theotokos (Mother of God).
4. The Struggles and Sufferings of the Fathers
His Holiness described the trials and exiles endured by the Fathers, such as St. Cyril’s conflicts with emperors and patriarchs. He warned that church history should not be read superficially—it is filled with sacrifices made for the truth.
5. Precision and Caution in Reading
He urged caution when reading theological works, especially those of Origen, whose intellect led him to overstep proper limits. Readers must approach the Fathers’ writings with spiritual discernment and humility.
6. A Living Ecclesiastical Heritage
Pope Shenouda affirmed that the Coptic Church remains steadfast in the Orthodox faith thanks to these Fathers’ efforts, and that theological libraries should preserve and translate their works for new generations.
7. Spiritual Conclusion
He concluded that studying theology is not for intellectual pride, but for spiritual growth and faith strengthening. The words of the Fathers are treasures of divine wisdom born from prayer and struggle.
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