January 9, 1844

249. Congratulation of a spiritual child on the Day of the Angel

O God, be merciful and bless us.

For a long time I have not had the pleasure of hearing about your life; and therefore I do not know whether you are healthy and good-natured, or whether you are faint-hearted and faint-hearted under the burden of your cross like me. However, I fervently wish that this letter would find you in complete peace of mind and in joy in the Lord. For we are not all discouraged, but rather let us trust in God, Who, through your many illnesses and spiritual sufferings, is able to ease your burden and console your heart with the joy of salvation. Therefore let us lift up our eyes to the mountains, from whence will come help! As for me, I am indeed suffering, and I am sick in soul and body; but no one hearkens to me like you, for which my heart is so painful. God! Give us patience, generosity and meekness.

September 15, 1846

I congratulate you on your housewarming party, with a fervent desire that the Lord bless your entry into the holy monastery of St. Nicholas, and strengthen your strength to bear the labors that lie ahead; for it is impossible that in a new place there is something that would not meet something new and difficult for oneself, when the trees are sick after transplanting the first summer. However, one should not lose heart; but lift up your eyes to the mountains, from where help will come.

250. The Best Gift to an Elder Is the Childlike Affection of a Spiritual Child

My beloved spiritual child in the Lord, and my heartfelt friend, and benefactor!

Let your soul rejoice in the Lord!

I had the consolation to receive three of your most pleasant writings with a parcel along with them; and for this your spiritual love for me, which is very good to me, I kissed and thanked in my mind in the Lord; and now I offer my gratitude to you from the bottom of my heart and in writing. May the Lord God remember thee, my dearest child, in His Kingdom, and may thy lot be with the saints in the brightness of the saints.

I confess to you, my beloved child, that although your sincere love and childlike innocent affection are pleasant to me, some gifts are very dependent, and some you would need for yourself. But you acted like the disciples of the Holy Apostle Paul, of whom he says thus: "If it were powerful, then your eyes were twisted, and you would give it to me." And you, my friend, spare nothing for me. But I beg you and beg you to be more economical in your reasoning; for for me the best present is your childish devotion to me, a sinner.

Reading in your letters about your many sufferings and temptations, I heartily grieved for this and prayed to the Lord God for your help and intercession.

But if there are many sorrows for the righteous, then you and I, the unrighteous, and how much more should we not refuse the desired drink, which destroys the acrimonious in us.

Therefore, with this great mercy of God, I have the honor to congratulate you, Passion-bearer of Christ; for your Heavenly Kingdom will be.