Catholic Dictionary
Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
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SHEPHERD OF HERMAS
An ethical treatise of the mid-second century. It is a work of major historical importance, preaching penance and consisting of five visions, twelve mandates, and two parables. It witnesses to the high moral principles of the early Church. The authorship has been attributed to Hermas, mentioned by St. Paul in his letter to the Romans (16:14), but it was more likely written by a brother of Pope St. Pius I.
