Origen (c. 185-c. 254)

Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume 11: New Mexico-Philip -- from Herbermann, Charles George (1840-1916)

Dictionary of Christian Biography and Literature to the End of the Sixth Century -- from Wace, Henry (1836-1924)

Origen (c. 185-c. 254) -- from Wikipedia Article

ANF09. The Gospel of Peter, The Diatessaron of Tatian, The Apocalypse of Peter, the Vision of Paul, The Apocalypse of the Virgin and Sedrach, The Te (Author)

Description: Originally printed in 1885, the ten-volume set, Ante-Nicene Fathers, brings together the work of early Christian thinkers. In particular, it brings together the writings of the early Church fathers prior to the fourth century Nicene Creed. These volumes are noteworthy for their inclusion of entire texts, and not simply fragments or excerpts from these great writings. The translations are fairly literal, providing both readers and scholars with a good approximation of the originals. These writings were heavily influential on the early Church, and for good reason, as they are inspirational and encouraging. These volumes also come with many useful notes, providing the reader with new levels of understanding. Overall, Ante-Nicene Fathers, or any part of it, is a welcome addition to one's reading list.

Tim Perrine
CCEL Staff Writer

Origen on Prayer

Description: Although it was written in the late first/early second century CE, today Origen on Prayer remains an influential text for believers on the practice, structure, and mindset of prayer. Early church scholar and theologian Origen was born, lived, and taught in Alexandria, Egypt and wrote several works. Origen writes that prayer is the way in which humans can know and have discourse with God. He notes the many ways prayer is depicted in the Bible, and then tackles the argument that prayer is superfluous. He describes the four purposes of prayer: requests, prayers (praise), intercessions, and thanksgivings. Origen also performs an exegesis of the Lord's Prayer, and this in-depth look at each phrase of the prayer is a valuable resource for Christians old and new. Origen concludes with comments on the formalities of prayer, in which he describes the proper posture and state of mind for praying. Origen on Prayer is helpful for those who wish to know how to approach prayer and notable for its expert discussion of the Lord's Prayer. Origen uses many Biblical references, particularly to prayerful characters, so the text presents a number of heralded role models for our communication with God.

Abby Zwart
CCEL Staff Writer