Chapter 1

¹ I know that your bishop did not obtain the ministry that serves the common good from himself or through men or out of vainglory, but in the love of God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I am struck by his gentleness; when he is silent he can do more than those who speak empty words.

² For he is attuned to the commandments as a lyre to its strings. Therefore my soul blesses his disposition toward God, knowing that it is virtuous and perfect, his steadfastness and his freedom from anger in all the gentleness of the living God.