Cyprian : The water ought to be first cleansed and sanctified by the bishop that it may be able to wash away in its baptism the sins of the one who is baptized. — Epistle LXIX:1 Isaac of Nineveh : Seek the Lord, O sinners, and be strengthened in your thoughts because of hope. And seek his face through repentance at all times. You will be sanctified by the holiness of his presence, and you will be purified of your iniquity. — ON ASCETICAL LIFE 5:76 Jerome : Careful consideration should be given to what a new heart and a new spirit is given when the water has been poured and sprinkled. — COMMENTARY ON Ezekiel 11:36.1-15 Theodoret of Cyrus : He calls the pure water the water of rebirth, because we who have been baptized have received the forgiveness of our sins. — COMMENTARY ON Ezekiel 14:36