Hymn to St. John Cassian

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.

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 away

But to care instead for the soul, since it is immortal.

Therefore your spirit, venerable John Cassian, rejoices with the angels.

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 those

Who praise you with fervent love.