VII. Christian and Ecclesiastical Virtues.
"Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity." 1 Tim. iv. 12.
"In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works; in doctrine uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity." Tit. ii. 7.
The seminarist regards the seminary as a school of Christian and ecclesiastical virtues, which he must acquire before he enters upon the holy ministry.
1. He sets before him constantly, as example, our Lord Jesus Christ.
"I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you." John, xiii. 15.
2. He applies at first to the three means necessary to attain holiness; frequent reflection on his actions and their motives; prayer; mortifying, specially of the imagination, the senses, and his private judgment.
"The whole land is made desolate, because no man layeth it to heart." Jer. xii. 11.
"Men ought always to pray, and not to faint." Luke, xviii. 1.
"They that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts." Gal. v. 24.
3. He makes humility the foundation for the acquisition of virtues.
"God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble." 1 Peter, v. 5.
4. He applies specially to the virtue most necessary for him, and most opposed to the inclinations of corrupt nature, such as contempt of one's self, support of one's neighbour, &c.
"I will follow upon mine enemies, and overtake them; neither will I turn again until I have destroyed them." Ps. xviii. 37.