I hear no one boast that he has a knowledge of the Scriptures, but that he owns a Bible written in gold characters. And tell me then, what profit is this? The Holy Scriptures were not given to us that we should enclose them in books, but that we should engrave them upon our hearts.
–Saint John Chrysostom (347-407)
Christ gave us his flesh to eat in order to deepen our love for him. When we approach him, then, there should be burning within us a fire of love and longing… The wise men paid homage to Christ’s body even when it was lying in a manger… They only saw Christ in a manger, they saw nothing of what you now see, and yet they approached him with profound awe and reverence. You see him, not in a manger but on an altar, not carried by a woman but offered by a priest; and you see the Spirit bountifully poured out upon the offerings of bread and wine.
–Saint John Chrysostom (347-407)
It is no advantage to be near the light if the eyes are closed.
–Saint Augustine (354-430)
Two criminals were crucified with Christ. One was saved; do not despair. One was not; do not presume.
–Saint Augustine (354-430)
Two works of mercy set a person free: forgive and you will be forgiven, and give and you will receive.
–Saint Augustine (354-430)
As our body cannot live without nourishment, so our soul cannot spiritually be kept alive without prayer.
–Saint Augustine (354-430)
