XLVI.—To Catechumens.

In few words, I admonish all believers in Christ, who have forsaken idols, for your salvation.  In the first times, if in any way thou fallest into error, still, when entreated, do thou leave all things for Christ; and since thou hast known God, be a recruit good and approved, and let virgin modesty dwell with thee in purity.  Let the mind be watchful for good things.  Beware that thou fall not into former sins.  In baptism the coarse dress of thy birth is washed.  For if any sinful catechumen is marked with punishment, let him live in the signs of Christianity, although not without loss.14    [Catechumens falling away before baptism must not despair, but persevere and remain under discipline.]  The whole of the matter for thee is this, Do thou ever shun great sins.

XLVI.---CATECUMINIS.

Credentes in Christo, derelictis idolis, omnes Admoneo paucis propter salutaria vestra. 0236B Temporibus primis per errorem si qua gerebas, Erogatus enim Christo tu cuncta relinque. Cumque Deum nosti, esto bonus tiro, probatus; Virgineusque pudor tecum versetur in agno. Mens bonis invigilet: cave ut non delinquas in ante. In baptismo tibi genitale solox lavatur. 0237A Nam si quis peccans catechumenus poena notatur, In signis illa vivat, sed non sine damno. Summa tibi: gravia peccata devita tu semper.