Gangra, Epilogue: True and False Asceticism

We write these things not to cut off those in the church of God who wish to lead an ascetic life according to the Scriptures, but those who carry the pretense of asceticism to arrogance, both exalting themselves above those who live more simply and bringing in novelties contrary to the Scriptures and the canons of the church. We do indeed admire virginity joined with humility; and we respect continence joined with godliness and seriousness; and we praise the leaving of worldly business when it is done with lowliness of mind. But at the same time we honor the holy partnership of marriage, and we do not scorn wealth enjoyed with uprightness and generosity. We commend plainness and frugality in dress, worn only out of care for the body, and that not overly fussy; but dissolute and effeminate excess in dress we avoid. We reverence the houses of God and embrace the assemblies held in them as holy and helpful, not confining religion within the houses, but reverencing every place built in the name of God. And we approve of gathering together in the church itself for the common good. We bless the abundant works of love done by the brothers for the poor, according to the traditions of the church. And, to sum it up in a word, we wish all things that have been handed down by the Holy Scriptures and the apostolic traditions to be kept in the church. [a]