185 (310). To Theodotus, Bishop of Berrhoea
LETTERS :H5 tion with those of like spirit is an assuagement of every sorrow, deign, as often as may be possible for you, to write to us and not only to rest yourself by addressing us but also to console us by sharing your words with us. And this we likewise shall be eager to do as often as our occupations may permit us. But, do you yourself pray and urge all the brethren earnestly to beseech the Lord, in order that He may some day offer us release from the gloom which is enveloping us.
185. To Theodotus, Bishop of Berrhoea1 I know that, even if you do not write to us, the memory of us is nevertheless present in your heart. And I take as an indication of this, not the fact that I myself am worthy of any kindly remembrance, but that your soul is rich in its superabundance of charity. However, as far as is possible for you, make use of the opportunities which occur to write to us in order that we may be of better courage on learning of your affairs and may ourselves seize the occasion to inform you of ours.
For, this is the method of communication for those who are so far separated in body, namely, through letters; and let us not deprive each other of it in so far as circumstances may permit. May the Lord grant us a personal meeting in order that we may increase our love, and may abound in our gratitude to the Master because of the greater gifts received from Him.
1 Theodotus was the orthodox Bishop of Berrhoea in Syria under Valens; nothing more is known about him. This letter was written in 374.