Letters of Ignatius 24

1When I learned of the exceeding good order of your love in the ways of God, I was gladdened and determined to address you in the faith of Jesus Christ.

2For, being counted worthy to bear a most godly name in these bonds, which I carry about, I sing the praise of the churches; and I pray that there may be in them union of the flesh and of the spirit which are Jesus Christ’s, our never-failing life—and union of faith and of love, which is preferred before all things, and—what is more than all—union with Jesus and with the Father, in whom, if we endure patiently all the despite of the prince of this world and escape therefrom, we shall attain unto God.