St. Symeon the New Theologian | Through holy baptism we are granted remission of our sins...

Through holy baptism we are granted remission of our sins, are freed from the ancient curse, and are sanctified by the presence of the Holy Spirit.

But we do not as yet receive the perfection of grace, as described in the words of Scripture, 'I will dwell in them, and move in them' (2 Cor. 6:16); for that is true only of those who are steadfast in faith and have demonstrated this through what they do.

If after we have been baptized we gravitate towards evil and foul actions, we lose the sanctification of baptism completely.

But through repentance, confession and tears we receive a corresponding remission of our former sins and, in this way, sanctification accompanied by the grace of God.


St. Symeon the New Theologian