Christ was actually crucified, and actually buried, and truly rose again; and all these things have been vouchsafed [given graciously] to us, that we, by imitation communicating in his sufferings, might gain salvation in reality. O surpassing loving-kindness! Christ received the nails in his undefiled hands and feet, and endured anguish; while to me without suffering or toil, by the fellowship of his pain he vouchsafes salvation.

—Cyril, Bishop of Jerusalem [late 4th century], Mystagogical Catechesis 2.6