The Synod of Jerusalem’s Letter for Athanasius

“The holy synod assembled at Jerusalem, to the presbyters, deacons and people of Egypt, Libya and Alexandria, our beloved and most dear brothers: greetings in the Lord. [a] “Beloved, we can never give fitting thanks to God, the Creator of all things, for the wonderful works he has now accomplished, and especially for the blessings he has given your churches by restoring Athanasius, your shepherd and lord and our fellow minister. Who could have hoped ever to see with his own eyes what you are now experiencing in fact? “But truly your prayers have been heard by the God of the universe, who cares for his church. He has looked on your tears and your lament, and for this reason he has heard your requests. For you were scattered and torn like sheep without a shepherd. So the true Shepherd, who watched over you from heaven and who cares for his own sheep, has given back to you the one you longed for. “See, we do everything for the peace of the church, and we are moved by a love like your own. That is why we received and embraced your shepherd. Having held communion with you through him, we send you this letter and our prayers of thanksgiving, so that you may know how we are united to him and to you by the bond of love. “It is right for you to pray for the piety of the emperors, most beloved of God. They recognized your longing for him, and his purity, and determined to restore him to you with every honor. So receive him with hands raised, and be eager to send up the prayers of thanksgiving that are due on his account to the God who has given you these blessings. May you always rejoice with God and glorify the Lord in Christ Jesus our Lord, through whom be glory to the Father throughout all ages. Amen.” [b]