4-5th Century Saint revered in Eastern and Western Christianity
Life
- https://orthodoxwiki.org/John_Cassian
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Cassian
- https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2022/02/28/100623-venerable-john-cassian-the-roman
- Introduction to the Life, Times and Writings of St. John Cassian (video 1 hr 8 min)
Teachings*
- Balance in Asceticism: Cassian emphasized the importance of moderation in ascetic practices. He believed that extreme fasting or harsh physical disciplines could be counterproductive, advocating instead for a balanced approach to spiritual life.
- Eight Principal Vices: He is famous for his discourse on the “eight principal vices”: gluttony, lust, avarice, anger, dejection, listlessness, vainglory, and pride. These teachings were foundational in the development of the concept of the “seven deadly sins” in later Christian thought.
- Importance of Community: While valuing the solitary life of hermits, Cassian also stressed the importance of community in monastic life. He believed that living in a community helps individuals to grow in virtue and humility, offering opportunities for practical application of Christian love and forgiveness.
- Continuous Prayer: Cassian advocated for the practice of continuous prayer, a cornerstone in Orthodox spirituality. He is often associated with the phrase “O God, make speed to save me; O Lord, make haste to help me,” emphasizing the need for constant, heartfelt prayer.
- Discernment: Discernment, or the ability to perceive and choose between different paths in the spiritual life, was a key theme in Cassian’s teachings. He believed that discernment was crucial in navigating the challenges of monastic life and in the deeper journey towards God.
Writings
Troparion — Tone 8
Having cleansed yourself through fasting,
You attained the understanding of wisdom,
And from the desert fathers You learned the restraint of the passions.
To this end through your prayers grant our flesh obedience to the spirit.
For you are the teacher, O venerable John Cassian,
Of all who in Christ praise your memory.
Troparion — Tone 8
The image of God was truly preserved in you, O Father,For you took up the Cross and followed Christ.By so doing you taught us to disregard the flesh for it passes awayBut to care instead for the soul, since it is immortal.Therefore your spirit, venerable John Cassian, rejoices with the angels.
Kontakion — Tone 4
As a venerable monk,You consecrated your life to God,And radiant with virtue, O John Cassian,You shine like the sun with the splendor of your divine teachings,Illumining ever the hearts of all who honor you.Entreat Christ earnestly in behalf of thoseWho praise you with fervent love.
Feast Day(s)
February 28
* GPT-4 assistance used for summarization of top five teachings
icon source: http://pravicon.com/info-2641
Orthodoxy of the Heart 