Tizaz
Statute 25
Overview
This statute gives rules for recognizing confessors who suffered for Christ, distinguishes the honors of the diaconate and presbyterate, and addresses prayer and thanksgiving.
1Statute 25: Concerning those who confessed and were condemned for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2If a confessor has been in a place of punishment, in chains for the name of Christ, hands shall not be laid on him for ministry, since that is the honor of a deacon. But as for the honor of the presbyterate, although through what he confessed he possesses the honor of the presbyterate, the bishop shall ordain him by laying his hand on him.
3If the confessor did not appear before the judges, was not punished with chains, was not confined in prison, and suffered no affliction, but was merely mocked for the name of his Lord and was not condemned to even the least punishment, yet professed all the work of the priesthood appropriate to him, they shall lay hands on him and make him a deacon.
4The bishop shall give thanks, as we have already said. He must mention the things already stated, recite them clearly and carefully, and give thanks to God, according to what is proper for each person to pray.
5If anyone can pray devoutly or offer a grand and elevated prayer, and is himself good, and if he prays and speaks praise with moderation, no one who is truly right in faith shall be prevented from praying.