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On the Dormition of Mary: Early Patristic Homilies

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The writings of the early church fathers are always a source of profound yet practical teaching. These are some of the best of early homilies during the age of the great orators for the faith such as Theoteknos, John Chrysostom, and John of Damascus. They are at once poetic and didactic.

They draw out the early Church teachings that convey the long-standing assertion of such Marian doctrines as, the immaculate conception, perpetual virginity, and the dormition/assumption of Mary. But, in addition, they hold references to the primacy of Peter, apostolic succession, and sacred tradition. Contrary to popular belief, these homilies convey how fully formed these "Catholic" doctrines were very early on in the church.

But they are not only valuable in their historical significance but valuable in their example of solid catechesis in the context of passionate preaching. Solid catechesis need not be dry and dispassionate - on the contrary it should be vibrant and moving. Teachers and preachers would do well to hone their gifts by reading the great preachers and teachers that have gone before us. This would be a great place to start.

These are great homilies of the ancient faith that never ages. A must have for any early church library.