Sound Advise

Quote from Letter 5,39 to Empress Constantina. 1 June 595

And so, I still ask that you allow nobody's hypocrisy to prevail against the truth, because there are some  who, in accordance with the words of the egregious teacher, 'by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple'. They have certainly been despised for their clothing, but they are proud in their hearts, and they seem to despise everything in this world, and yet at the same time seek to obtain all those worldly things. They confess to all men they are unworthy, but cannot be content with private titles, because they seek out ways to appear more worthy than all others.

And so, as almighty God has established you as ruler of the universal world, together with your most serene Lordship, may your Piety through the favor of justice render your service to Him, from whom you received the right of such great power

Thus, the more truly you serve the Creator of all things in the execution of the truth, the more securely you would control the world entrusted to you.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 355 

Taxation

Quote from Letter 5,38 to Constantina, Augusta. 1 June 595

The island of Corsica is also oppressed by such an excessive number of exacting payments, and by such heave taxes, that those living there are scarcely able to pay the taxes imposed on them, even if they sell their children. Consequently, the owners of the same island have abandoned their holy republic, and are defecting to the most evil race of Lombards. For what could they suffer from the barbarians more grievous, what more cruel, than that they should be compelled to sell their own children under duress?

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 354

The Need To Be Sincere

Quote from Letter 5,37 to Maurice, Augustus. June 595

But while we leave what is appropriate for us and consider what is inappropriate for us, we associate out sins with barbarian forces. Our sins have sharpened the enemy's swords, which burdens the strength of the republic. But what can we possibly say, since we oppress the people of God, over whom we unworthily preside, with the burdens of our sins, and destroy with our example what we preach with our tongue, and teach unjust things with our works and with our voice alone put forward what is just?
Our bones are worn away with fasting, and we are swollen in our mind. Our body is clad in ragged clothes, but we surpass the purple with the pride of our heart. We are lying in ashes, and despise those on high. Teachers of humility, as leaders of arrogance we keep our wolves' teeth hidden looking like a lamb.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 349.

War

Quote from Letter 5,36 to Maurice, Augustus. June 595

And indeed, if the captivity of my land was not increasing every moment of every day, I should happily keep quiet about my being despised and laughed at. But this afflicts me strongly, that while I endure a charge of falsehood, so Italy is led captive each day beneath the Lombards' yoke, and while my suggestions are in no way believed, the forces of the enemy are increasing immensely.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 348

Friendship

Quote from Letter 5,35 to Elias, priest and abbot of the province of Isauria. May 595

I have received the most charming letter of your Holiness, in which you satisfy me so that I should not be upset over your not coming to the abode of Saint Peter, the prince of the apostles, in accordance with my desire. In fact I wanted very much to see you. But if a difficulty over body or age stopped you from coming, this suffices for me, that wherever your Holiness should be, you should pray for me with concern that, although we are divided in body by our locations, we should never be divided in our love.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 346

Arbitration

Quote from Letter 5,34 to Severus, rhetor of the exarch of Ravenna. May 595

But be aware that Agilulf, king of the Lombards, does not refuse to make a general peace, provided the patrician lord will agree to arbitration. For he complains that many acts were committed against him in his territory, during the time of the peace. 

And since he demands satisfaction for himself, if reason leads to arbitration, he also promises that he himself will give satisfaction in every way, if it is agreed that some hostile deed was done on his side during the peace. Since therefore there is no doubt that what he seeks is quite reasonable, there ought to be arbitration, so that, if anything has been done wrongly on either side, it might be settled, provided the general peace can be strengthened with God's protection. For you well know how necessary this is for all of us.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 346

Legal Matters

Quote from Letter 5,33 to Cyprian, deacon. May 595

It has come to our attention from reports of Theodosius, abbot of the monastery of saint Martin, that he has retained three monks there in Sicily, whom he had sent over for the advantage of his monastery. And he asks from us that, with your support, he should recall them into his own monastery. And so, let your Beloved, who knows that we are greatly and fervently zealous over cases of this sort, have them looked for with a careful investigation, and when they are found, have them sent over to the aforesaid abbot, to whom they are being so insolent, under suitable care and strict control. Therefore, be careful that legal strictness is not harmed by some delay or slackness by those allotted.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 345

Foes Of God

Quote from Letter 5,32 to Cyprian, deacon. 20 April 595

And so, with al virtue and with all urgency let your Beloved take care to show your zeal in this case towards our almighty God, and to exhibit worthy opposition to His foes with the infliction of punishments, so that you fulfill what has been written: 'Do I not hate them, O Lord, that hate you? I am nog grieved with those who rise up against you?' If therefore your Beloved is inflamed with the zeal, let punishment be shown against those who have abandoned God and harmed Him with their evil deeds. But if you are unable to carry this out correctly therein, men of this sort ought to be sent over to us, provided that it can be shown that they can be convicted there without any difficulty. But because I think that this is impossible, you ought to apply a strict and severe punishment there.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 

On Taxes

Quote from Letter 5,31 to the tenants of estates or farms situated in Gaul. 15 April 595.

But because the time of winter has impeded us, we have arranged for you to be commended to a glorious man and patrician, Arigius. In the meantime be ready to obey him with earnest goodwill and obedience, as is proper for servants of Saint Peter, and to implement whatever you are ordered to do for the sake of the Church's benefit.

We have decided that you should bring in customary exceptions for its benefit. But let the taxes collected honestly and with all diligence remain under the care of any of you whom you have elected with common consent. When the man we are going to send up from our side reaches you, he can receive those taxes from that person.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 344

To The Emperor

Quote from Letter 5,30 to Maurice, Augustus. 12 March 595

Some nuns have come to this city from various provinces, fleeing after being captured, and several of them were placed in monasteries, as far as the possibilities of the places allowed, but those among them who could not be housed at all, are living singularly destitute lives of poverty. Because of this, it has been decided that what could be spared from the blind and maimed and other invalids, ought to be paid to them, provided that not only indigent locals but also strangers arriving here should receive the mercy of your Lordship. It has thus been brought about that they all pray together in concord for the life of their Lordship, that almighty God might grant you a long and peaceful life and allow the most fortunate offspring of your Piety to flourish for a long time in the Roman republic.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 342

Setting The Example

Quote from Letter 5,29 t Julian, a recruiting-officer. 2 March 595

Indeed you do well to love charity and persuade men to concord. But since we are compelled by a consideration of our rank to leave aside those unwanted things which have not come to all our notice because of God, for that reason, as Maximus comes here, we take care to examine him in detail as to what has been said about him, and we are confident in the protection of our Creator, as we are deflected neither by anyone's favor nor by any wrongdoing from the status of canon law and the rectitude of justice, but we freely preserve what agrees with reason. for it (Heaven forbid!) we neglect the care and energy of the Church, idleness destroys discipline and will certainly harm the souls of the faithful, while they receive examples of this sort from their own bishops.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 342

Investigation

Quote from Letter 5,28 to Cyprian, deacon. March 595

Benenatus, our brother and fellow-bishop, alleges that a certain monk, Cicerio, [...] was a servant of his under Church law, and asks for him to be restored to him together with his goods.

And so, it is necessary that your Beloved should inquire into this earnestly, and if it is established to be truly so, restore the aforesaid Cicerio with his goods [...] to the ownership of the Church of Misenum, without any delay. This, after a culpable lapse has removed him from the monastic way of life, he may now recognize the yoke of mastership, which he could have avoided as a permanent monk.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 342.

Aid

Quote from Letter 5,27 to Gaudentius, bishop of Nola. March 595

Let your Fraternity restore the ten gold coins that Festus, one-time bishop of the above-mentioned church [of Capua], took from Rusticus, his archdeacon, because Rusticus is said to have reached such terrible poverty that something should be conferred on him rather than taken away from him. For it is hard to neglect a person even far from his priestly office, when he is subject to need, while longing for money indecently, so keen to pile it up.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 341

Good Counsel

Quote from Letter 5,26 to Vincomalus, defender. February 595

You should faithfully work hard to complete all that we have charged you to do, as being about to render an account on your actions before the judgement of our God. We have dictated this letter for Paterius, notary of our Church, to write down.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 341

Last Will

Quote from Letter 5,25 to Castor, notary. February 595

It has come to our attention, therefore, that a certain Adeodatus, a citizen of Pisa, allotted Thomas as guardian for his son and his home-bred slave, his appointed heirs, with this condition added, that if his heirs should perhaps pass from this life while still wards, all of his wealth would have to be paid out to the poor, through the hands of the aforesaid guardian. 

Those who were appointed as his heirs soon died, but the above-mentioned guardian is said to have been prevented by certain people from being able to implement the dead man's last wish.

Wherefore if you find it to be true as we have been told, take care and show concern to protect and defend the aforesaid guardian reasonably, so that whatever was imposed o him we should be able to deliver effectively.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 340

Death Of A Bishop (3)

Quote from Letter 5,24 to Castor, notary. 10 February 595

The news of the death of our brother and fellow-bishop, John, has saddened us very greatly, especially as that city had at this time lost the consolation of pastoral care. Since, therefore, very many benefits demand that a priest should be ordained for the church itself without delay, and with Christ's authority, for that reason we command your Experience to be active in exhorting the clergy and people with all urgency not to put off electing a priest for themselves who should be consecrated. But we want you to advise them before all else not to attend to their private benefits in a general issue. Therefore, let there be no venality in this election, in case they lose their discretion in making a choice, while seeking bribes, and thank one suitable for this office as he pleased them not with his merits, but with his presents.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 339

Death Of Another Bishop

Quote from Letter 5,23 to Cyprian, deacon of the Sicilian patrimony. February 595

We believe that your Beloved has already learnt of the death o Bishop Theodore. But because he is said to have made a will, you must carefully inquire what he had used from the goods of his church. And if, indeed, you learn that he reduced them to some extent improperly, deal with it in such a way that the goods themselves are totally repaid by whom who is concerned in it.


Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 339

Death Of A Bishop (2)

Quote from Letter 5,22 to the clergy, nobles and people of Ravenna. 10 February 595

Learning of the death of your bishop, it was our concern to solemnly dedicate the visitations of the bereaved church to our brother and fellow-bishop, to whom we have granted in our orders that he should allow nothing concerning promotions of clergy, revenue, ornaments and holy dishes to be expected by anyone. It is appropriate for you to obey his assiduous exhortations, and the rest according to custom.


Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 339

Death Of A Bishop (1)

Quote from Letter 5,20 to Cyprian, deacon of the Sicilian patrimony. February 595

I have received the very bitter letters of your Beloved about the death of Lord Maximian in the month of November. And indeed he has come to the rewards he longed for, but we must feel sorry for the unlucky people of the city of Syracuse, who did not deserve to have such a bishop for a long time.
Therefore let your Beloved take care that just such a person should be chosen for consecration in the same church, who after our Lord Maximian should not appear to obtain the same position of control without deserving it. And I certainly believe that the majority would elect the priest Trajan, who is said to have an honest mind.



Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 338

Limits to Kindness

Quote from Letter 5,19 to Romanus, exarch of Italy, resident in Ravenna. December 594


Before your Excellency, the audacity of evil men ought to find the stings of punishment rather than the comfort of a defense. For it is serious enough if an evil act should happen to find refuge there, where it is right that the censure of discipline should apply. And so it has come to our attention that Speciosus, an ex-priest, who had been allotted to a monastery by our brother and fellow-bishop, John, left it contrary to the wishes of his bishop, and despising the strength of the Church's constitution resisted the aforesaid bishop, relying on your protection.
And because this without doubt stirs up hatred for your Excellency, you must suspend yourself from protecting him, showing discretion, in case, in he uses the pretext of your name to be disobedient and abusive to his pastor, his bishop is forced to defend your judges against you for the moment, and to offend your excellency over this matter, and to distress us equally over your quarrel.



Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 337

Church Discipline

Quote from Letter 5,18 to Constantius, bishop of Milan. November 594

But as for the ex-priest Vitalian, about whom you write that he should be strictly guarded, we shall have him sent to Sicily, so that, with the hope of escape from there removed, he can at least restrict himself then to the laments of penitence. We also decreed that Jobinus, one-time deacon and abbot in Porto Venere, should be deprived of his office, and wrote that another deacon should be ordained in his place. Similarly we also decreed that the three sub-deacons who had lapsed, as reported by your Fraternity, should be deprived and without their office forever, and be provided with Holy Communion as if they were lay people. However, we have ordered the ex-priest Saturninus to make a sworn statement that he will never presume to apply for a ministry of holy orders. And we want him to remain in the same island in which he was deprived of holy orders, allowing him to have and show care and concern for the monasteries there, since we believe that, even from his lapse, he had been more cautious, and is guarding the monasteries entrusted to him now with even more concern.



Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 336

Pastoral Care

Quote from Letter 5,17 to Venantius, bishop of Luni. November 594


And so let your Fraternity look after what has been entrusted to you with vigilant care. With your preaching you must save them from their evil deeds, as you are able to do, so that you are found both to fulfill the purpose of your office and to make God be there so recompense you for your actions. But we are extremely keen to see you and to rejoice in God over your presence here and your safety. We have sent a vestment for the woman who needs to be baptized, and we pray that you always write to us about such things.
We have also directed that those bearing this letter should hand over a copy of our Pastoral Care to the noble priest, Columban. You are not to keep it for yourself, for we are sending over another copy as quickly as possible, for you to use.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II,

The Task Of The Shepherd

Quote from Letter 5,16 to John, bishop of Prima Justiana, in Illyria. November 594

(W)e have duly sent over a pallium, and decree that you carry out the office of the apostolic see with regular renewal, and suggest that you should show yourself as so approachable among your subjects, that they are encouraged to love your rectitude rather than fear it. If perchance their sins should demand it, you will take care so to correct their faults, that you in no way give up the paternal affection you feel for them.
Be vigilant and concerned in guarding the flock entrusted to you, and strict with a keen desire for discipline, so that the wolf lying in wait does not succeed in disturbing the Lord's sheepfold or in harming the sheep with any chance of deceit. Be quick to make a profit in souls for our God, with the full attention of your mind. Realize that we have adopted the name of shepherd not for rest but for hard work. Let us show, therefore, with our work what we signify in the name.


Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 333

A Moral Appeal

Quote from Letter 5,15 to John, bishop of Ravenna. November 594

Reflect, therefore, on all of these things about which I have already spoken, my very dear brother. Pay attention to the day of your calling, consider what account you will give for the burden of your episcopate. Correct that behavior of a notary. See what is fitting for the tongue, and for the acts of bishops. Be totally pure with your brethren. Do not say one thing and have another in your heart, and do not seek to appear more than you are, so that you can really be more than you appear to be. Believe me, when I came to this position, I deliberated so carefully and felt such affection for your Fraternity, that if you have been willing to preserve that same affection of mine, you would never have found such a brother again, loving you so sincerely and agreeing with you in all devotion.
But learning of your words and behavior, I must confess that I recoiled. I ask you therefore by almighty God, correct all those things that I have put before you, especially the vice of duplicity. Allow me to love you, and both for the present and for the life to come, it will be to your advantage that your brethren love you.
But reply to this not with words for me, but with your behavior.


Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 332

Visitor of a See (II)

Quote from Letter 5,14 to the clergy of the church of Capua, who lived in Naples. November 594


Since Festus, bishop of the church of Capua, has departed from this life while staying here, it has been our concern to solemnly delegate the visitation of the destitute church to our brother and fellow-bishop, Gaudentius, bishop of the city of Nola (...). Let no one of you dare to oppose his injunctions, but as much with all ecclesiastical reverence as with guardianship of your church, show obedience to his provisions also, so that, while your obedience is accommodated to his rule, the prosperity of your church may be in no way neglected and your care for him may be more willing.


Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 331

Visitor of a See

Quote from Letter 5,13 to Gaudentius, bishop of Nola. November 594.

Since Festus, bishop of the church of Capua, has departed from this life while staying in the city of Rome, it has been our concern (a care shown by us over every single church), to send the present letter to your Fraternity, asking you to act as visitor to the above-mentioned church, but in such a way that you allow nobody to presume anything about the promotions of clergy, or income, or ornaments and holy dishes, or whatever might exist in the aforesaid place.


Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 331

Responsibility

Quote from Letter 5,12 to Peter, bishop of Triocala. November 594.

And therefore your Fraternity must consider with a concerned mind that you should be keen to give earnest attention to the church from which you receive income, gathering souls together there for God, curing the wicked of their iniquity, nourishing with words of encouragement those starting on good works, and mindful of what was written bout the universal Church: 'she eats not her food in idleness'.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, translated by John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMPS, 2004), II, 331

The Pallium

Qoute from Letter 5,11 to John, bishop of Ravenna. October 594. I find that your Fraternity is extremely distressed by the fact that you are forbidden from wearing the pallium in litanies, due to our cirticism of your reason. But by means of a most excellent patrician and a most eminent prefect, and through other noblemen of your city, you insolently seek to have this granted to you. But from careful inquiries, we have found out from Adeodatus, who was once deacon of your fraternity, that is was never costumary for your predecessors to use the palium in litanies, except in the solemn processions for Saint John the Baptist, Saint Peter the apostle and Saint Apollinaris the martyr. In fact we should not have believed him at all, because many of our delegates have quite often been in the city of your Fraternity, and they claim that they have never seen anything like that. And in this matter, one should believe many witnesses rather that just one who attests something on behalf of his own church. Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II: 330.

Pallium

Quote from Letter 5,10 to each of the bishops throughout Illyria. October 594.

(W)e have found out that in the person of John, our brother and fellow-bishop, the consensus of all of you and the wish of our most serene emperor are in accord. Great exultation has filled us, therefore, that such a man has been promoted, with the authority of God, to the office of bishop, a man who has been proved worthy of all things by the judgement of his election.
Therefore, in accordance with the purpose of your demand, with the authority of our assent we confirm that our brother and fewllow-bishop mentioned above is esthablished in the rank of priesthood which he holds, and we declare that we consider his ordination as ratified, by sending him the pallium.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II: 329.

Church Property

Quote from Letter 5,9 to Peter, notary in Reggio. October 594.

Those bearing this letter asked that the church plate of the church of Myrie, which Bishop Severinus had at some stage taken with him to Squillace, be restored to them.
Since, therefore, Church property ought to be secured with careful concern, this is what we have decided. He should be consecrated bishop in the same city where the plate itself could be handed over to him.


Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II: 329.

Humility

Quote from Letter 5,8 to Felix, bishop of Serdica. October 594.

You yourself have no doubt as to how obedience and reverence ought to be shown to your superiors and to your inferiors also. In this matter, it is most advantageous if humility that deserves applause can uphold what the force of discipline imposes, without anyone's pressure.
And so, it has come to our attention that your Fraternity does not deign to obey our brother John, bishop of Prima Justiniana, according to custom, and are unwillling to add your signature in the normal way either to his decree or to the repley that he sent to us.
But if this is so, we are most upset.
For you are clearly showing proof of arrogance on your part. And the words of a divine warning state loudly how especially culpable this is, where a priest is concerned.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II: 328.

Tax and Converts

Quote from Letter 5,7 to Cyprian, deacon and rector of the Sicilian patrmony. October 594.

Thus the tax burden would be relieved for the convert, and Church funds would not be under pressure from a heavy expense. Nor are we doing this unprofitably, if by relieving their taxburdens we bring them to the grace of Christ. For, although they themselves come to us with little faith, even so these who are born from them can now be baptized with greater faith. Our profit therefore, is either themselves or their children. Whatever we lose in tax for Christ's sake is not a serious loss.


Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II: 327.

Put Things Right

Quote from Letter 5,5 to Sabinian, deacon in Contantinople. September 594.

But I myself sent letters to him [the apostate Maximus], after I found out that he had been consecrated contrary to reason and contrary to what was customary, telling him not to presume to celebrate solemn Mass, until I first found out from my most serene Lordship what order he had given about his person.
When my letters were read out in public and posted in the city, he had them publicly torn up, and openly stood out with his contempt for the apostolic see.
You know how I would put up with this, I who before was ready to die rather than have the Church of Saint Peter degenerate in my time. You are well aware of my character, knowing that I would put up with things for a long time, but once I have decided not to put up with things, I am happy to meet all dangers. It is necessary, therefore, for one to face danger with the help of God, so that one is not forced to sin through excess.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II: 326

Lapse in Faith

Quote from Letter 5,5 to Venantius, bishop of Luni, September 594.

For it has come to our attention that, after being removed from his priestly order because of his sinful lapse in faith, he [Saturninus] has presumed to return to carrying out his priestly ministry, and offering the body of Christ to almighty God, If your Fraternity finds that this is what has happened, you must deprive him of the holy body and blood of our Lord and force him to penitence, in such a way that right up to the day of his death he remains in the same state of excommunication, and receives his last rites only at the time of his demise.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II:325

Negligence

Quote from Letter 5,4 to Victor, bishop op Palermo. September 594.

No reason at all allowed the bearer of this Letter, Gregory, once abbot and priest of the monastery of Saint Theodore, to have the right to be in charge of the place any longer, following the almost total lapse by that community.
For one who has led so many disciples to Hell through his negligence ought not to be put in charge of those left at any time. But because here in Rome there is a long period of penitential suffering, it is necessary for your Fraternity to receive him in the aforesaid monastery and to appoint him to his position, but in such a way that Urbicus, put in charge of my monastery, ought to provide someone from the servants of God to become his supervisor, so that what is neglected by the lack of care by that man, may be preserved through the concern of this appointee.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II: 325

Against Heretics

Quote from Letter 5,3 to Dominic, bishop of Carthage. September 594

(A)nd we would all want heretics always to be suppressed by Catholic priests with vigor and logic, nevertheless, as we look into it in more detail, we are entirely concerned that an offense should nog be created (Heaven forbid!) through the things which were done among you by the primates of other councils. For at the conclusion of your activities, you brought forward a decision, in which you advised them about tracking down heretics, but at the same time you added a rider that those who neglect to do so myst be punished with a loss of possessions and honors.
It is best therefore, dearest brother, that in these external matters needing correction, internal charity should first be preserved, and in our minds we should be subject even to persons of lower rank, which we judge the special quality of your Gravity. For then, with all your forces united, you will then meet the errors of the heretics more successfully, as you follow the custom of your priesthood and apply yourself to the protection of Church harmony among your fellow priests.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II: 324

A New Oratory

Quote from Letter to Bishop Felix and Abbot Cyriacus. September 594.

The tenor of the report submitted to you explains adequately the complaint of Theodosia, a religious woman, in which we read a good many major charges against your brother and fellow-bishop Januarius, and ones not befitting the clemency of a priest, in such a way that after she had founded a monastery for the monks, everything pertaining to avarice, disturbance and prejudice is said to have been shown at the time of the actual dedication of the oratory (...). (Thus) after you have settled the venerable place itself in a decent and regular manner, with the Lord's help, we may neither be shaken by the frequent complaint of the aforesaid religious woman over the non-fulfillment of her good desires, nor may it be detrimental to your soul, if such a pious proposal should be languishing through some delay, due to your negligence.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II: 323

Vanity of Clerics

Quote from Letter 5,1 to John, bishop of Ravenna. September 594.

It has come to my attention that, in your Fraternity's church, some places consecrated long ago for monasteries have been turned into dwelling-places for clerics, or even for members of the laity. For while those who are in the churches pretend that they are living in a religious manner, they strive to be put in charge of the monasteries, and through their way of life the monasteries are being destroyed. For nobody can both do service to ecclesiastical obedience and persist also in the monastic rule in due manner (...). And so let your Fraternity be quick to correct this habit, wherever it has occurred. For I do not put up in any way with sacred places being destroyed through the vanity of clerics.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II: 323

Pilgrims with the Body and in the Heart

Quote from Letter 4,44 to Rusticiana, patrician. August 594.

On receiving your Excellency's letter, I was glad to hear how you had reached Mount Sinai. Believe me, I too should have gone with you, but by no means to have returned with you. And yet, it is extremely difficult for me to believe that you have visited holy places, and have seen many Fathers. For, I believe that if you had seen them, you could not have returned to the city of Constantinopel so quickly. Rather, as the love of such a fine city by no means left your heart, I suspect that your Excellency paid little attention in your heart to the sacred things that you experienced with your body.
But, may almighty God illuminate your mind with the grace of his piety, and grant you wisdom, and let you know how transient all temporal things are For, while we are saying this, time flies and the Judge is approaching.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I:322

Debet And Credit

Quote from Letter 4,32 to Fantinus, the defender. August 594.

(And) because he owed one hunderd and fifty gold coins, I wanted his [Cosmas, the debtor from Syria] creditors to make some sort of agreement with him. For the law states also that a free man should by no means be held for the sake of a debt, if there were no further items which might be added to the same debt. And so, as he asserts, it is possible for his creditors to consent to eighty gold coins. But because he is asking a lot for them to seek eighty gold coins from a person who has nothing, we have sent over sixty gold coins to you through your notary, so that, when you have careful talks with the same creditors, you may provide an account.
For they cannot hold his son, as they are said to be holding him, according to the laws. And, if it can be done, let them settle for something less than what we have given. And whatever remains of the same sixty gold coins, hand it over to Cosmas himself, so that he can live on it with his son.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 321

Shortage Of Clergy

Quote from Letter 4,42 to Maximian, bishop of Syracuse. August 594

Since he [bishop Bacauda] mentions that he has neither a priest nor deacons, he has asked that they should be sent over to him, Therefore, wherever your Fraternity discovers them, as indicated by the bearer of this letter, send them over there without delay.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 321

Keys of Saint Peter

Quote from Letter 4,41 to Boniface, a magnificent man, of Africa. August 594.

But for your sake, come and present yourself to the abode of Saint Peter, the prince of the apostles. And, unless I demonstrate all that I wrote, through a reading, depart with whatever disputation you want. However, I exhort you, while a stretch of life remains, not to allow your soul to be found divided from the Church of the same Saint Peter, to whom the keys of the heavenly kingdom have been entrusted, and the power of bin,ding and releasing has been attributed. Otherwise, if his benefit is despised here, he may close the gateway to life there.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 320

Warning

Quote from Letter 4,40 to Abbot Valentinus. August 594.

It has come to our attention that women are appearing everywhere in your monastery, and, what is even more serious, your monks are making the women their consorts. As a result, they are having incautious unions with them. Therefore, in case the enemy of the human race uses this opportunity to deceive them with his cunning (Heaven forbid!), we give you this warning accordingly in the course of this order. Do not permit women to appear in your monastery hereafter, with any sort of excuse, and do not allow your monks to make them their consorts.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 320

Ordination

Quote from Letter 4,39 to clergy, senate and people living in Ortona. August 594.

But know this, that if it is necessary and he can find men worthy of this office, we have given him the license to ordain priests and deacons. Thus, in obedience to the church, a bishop may be sought who has no reason to disagree with the venerable canons and who can be found worthy of such a great ministry.
When he has been requested with the solemnity of a decree, reinforced by the signatures of all, and accompanied by a letter of the visitor, let him com to us for ordination. Before all else, take care that you do not presume to elect a layman, whatever his way of life and merit.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 319

A Friendly No

Quote from Letter 4,38 to Marcellus, a scholastic. July 594.

Our love of your Glory is always so alive in our heart that the absence of your body does not keep you away at al. For although you are far from our earthly eyes you are never out of our mind's sight. For our wish frequently drives us eagerly to writing letters, but our occupation does not allow it. And so, while your Nobility's experience may not be ignorant of the weighty occupations in which out office is involved, you should consider it due to necessity, not to our wishes, that we sometimes have a break from the duty of writing letters.
But because your Glory in your letter wants to hear from us later, we do not see with what excuse we can defend ourselves. Therefore, in this matter I should have defended myself with silence alone, but the ardor of my love did not let my tongue keep quiet.
Therefore, we greet you with all our affection and sweetness, and admit that we are greatly saddened. For you have wished to seek from us those things over which, while we are unable to satisfy your wish since reason disapproves, we may seem to sadden you, which we do not wish.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 318

Concerns About Orthodoxy

Quote from Letter 4,37 to Constantius, bishop of Milan. July 594.

Having run through the letter of your Holiness, we know that you are seriously upset, most of all because of the bishops ad citizens of Brescia. For they command you to send a letter to them, in which you must swear that you have not condemned the Three Chapters at all. If the predecessor of your Fraternity, Laurence, did not do so, you should not be asked to write. But if he did so, he was outside the universal Church, and overstepped the oaths of his pledge.
However, we believe that the same man kept his oath and remained in union with the Catholic Church. Thus there is no doubt that he dod not swear to any of his bishops that he had not condemned the Three Chapters at all. From this, let your Sanctity conclude that you should not be forced to do what your predecessor certainly did not do. But, so that those who wrote those words to you should not be offended, send them a letter, and in it declare this under the interposition of anathema, that you neither take away anything from the faith of the synod of Chalcedon nor receive those who do so, and that you condemn whomsoever it condemned, and absolve whomsoever is absolved.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I:317

Last Will And Testament

Quote from Letter 4,36 to Maximian, bishop of Syracuse. July 594.

Euplus, the bearer of this letter, tells us that the bishop of Agrigento, Eusanius was his father, and indicates that a great deal of his mother's property had remained at his place. Since he says that the bishop has died intestate, for that reason he asks that the property of his mother should be restored to him, and that he should be allowed to obtain the fortune of his father, the aforesaid bishop.
We charge your Fraternity, in the course of this advice, to take diligent care in investigating this matter. If anything from his mother's property can be found in the aforesaid church, provided there is nothing that could reasonably disqualify the aforesaid Euplus, see this this is restored to him according to his proper share (..). For, it is proved to be entirely contrary to reason and to our proposition, if we should refuse to give anyone satisfaction and to restore those things which legally belong to them.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I:316

The Lord's Flock

Quote from Letter 4,35 to Victor and Columbus, bishops of Africa. July 594.

The message of this consideration ought to force us powerfully to resist the diseases of the soul as far as is possible, quickly. Otherwise, while we fail to apply healthy medicines, they may rob many of you of your lives, with which we are striving to enrich our God.
We must therefore protect with vigilant care the sheepfolds of our sheep, over which we seem to have been placed as guards, so that the cunning wolf finds shepherds fighting against him on all sides, and has no way of getting into the sheepfold.
For indeed, we have found that the stings of the Donatists have disturbed our Lord's flock in those parts like this, as if they were not looked after by the control of any shepherd. And the report has come to us, which we cannot mention without heavy grief, that very many of them have already been torn by poisoned teeth.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 315

On Celibacy

Quote from Letter 4,34 to Leo, bishop of Catana. July 594.

From the report of many, we have found that this old custom prevailed among you, that sub-deacons should be allowed to have intercourse with their wives. A deacon of our see, Servusdei, prohibited anyone from presuming to do so again, on the authority of our predecessor. He did so in such a way that, at that time, those who had already had sex with their wives should have one of two choices. That is, they should either abstain from their wives, or definitively not presume to act as ministers at all. And as far as we know, Speciosus, at that time a sub-deacon, suspended himself from his office of administration for this reason, Right up to the time of his death he carried out his office of notary instead, and ceased from the ministry that a sub-deacon ought to have served.
After the death of Speciosus, because his widow Honorata had been associated with a husband, we know that your Fraternity allotted her to a convent. And for that reason, if her husband suspended himself, as is said, from his administrative position, it ought not to harm the aforesaid woman that she had sexual union with a second husband, especially if she was joined to the sub-deacon with no such intention of abstaining from the pleasures of the flesh. And so, if you know that our information is true, it is altogether right that you release the aforesaid woman from the convent, so that she can return to her husband without any fear.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 314

Quote from Letter 4,33 to Theodelinda, queen of the Lpmbards. July 594.

Therefore, since you know this from my open statement of it, it is right that you should no longer have any scrap of doubt with regard to the Church of Saint Peter, the prince of the apostles. But persist in the true faith, and establish your life on the rock of the Church, that is to say, on the confession of Saint Peter, the prince of the apostles.
Otherwise, all of your tears and such great deeds may perish, if they are found hostile to the true faith. For as boughs wither away without the goodness of the root, so works, however good they may appear, are nothing if they are separated from the foundation of faith.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 313

Donatists

Quote from Letter 4,32 to Pantaleo, praetorian prefect of Africa. july 594.

It is no light sin, therefore, if those who are condemned by both the integrity of our faith and the strictness of earthly laws, discover the freedom to spread in your times. And so in those parts, as far as we have learnt, the audacity of the Donatists, has so increased that they not only eject priests of the Catholic faith from their own churches, with pernicious authority, but also do not fear to re-baptize those whom the water of rebirth has washed clean with a true confession of faith. And we are quite amazed, it is is actually so, that wicked people of this sort should be allowed to do wrong, with you in charge there.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 312

Support And Care

Quote from Letter 4,31 to Anthelm, sub-deacon. July 594.

We ought to give moderate support to those whom our Redeemer deems worthy to convert to himself from the Jewish perdition, so that they should not suffer from lack of food (Heaven forbid!). And for that reason, by the authority of this order, we charge you not to put off giving gold coins each year to the children of Justa, converted from Judaism, that is to Juliana, Redemptus and Fortuna, beginning with the approaching thirteenth indiction.


Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 312

On Relics

Quote from Letter 4,40 on the miracles of the apostles and relics of the saints, to the Empress Constantina. June 594.

But my most serene empress must know that it is not a custom for the Romans, when they give away relics of saints, to presume to touch anything of the body. Rather, a silk cloth is simply put in a small bod, which is placed near the very holy bodies of the saints. When lifted out, the box is deposited with due reverence in the church which is to be dedicated, and through it miracles occur, as great as if the saints' bodies were specially brought there.
From this it happened that in the time of Pope Leo of blessed memory, as is handed down by our ancestors, when some Greeks were in doubt about such relics, the above-mentioned pope brought in scissors and cut into this cloth, and blood flowed from the actual incision. For, in Roman areas and in all the Western parts, it is totally intolerable and sacrilegious if anyone should perhaps want to touch the bodies of the saints. If he presumes to do so, it is certain that this temerity will in no way remain unpunished.
For this reason we are greatly amazed at the custom of the Greeks, who say that they dig up the bones of saints, and we scarcely believe it.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 310

Mission

Quote from Letter 4,29 to Januarius, bishop of Cagliari on Sardinia. June 594.

But we have now learnt that, through the lack of priests, some pagans remain there, living like wild animals, still totally ignorant of the worship of God. We exhort your Fraternity therefore to make haste to consecrate a bishop there, according to the old custom, but such a person of course who is apt for this work in his morality and speech, and who would be keen to lead his wandering sheep to the Lord's flock, with pastoral emulation.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 309

A Helping Hand

Quote from Letter 4,28 to Candidus, defender. June 594.

It is fitting that pontifical assistance should be available for those who suffer need. With regard to this matter, we instruct your Experience, with the present authority, that without any delay, you do not cease to provide two thirds of a gold coin each year for Albinus, deprived of sight, the son of Martin, a one-time farmer.


Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 309

Being A Christian

Quote from Letter 4,27 to Hospiton, duke of the Barbaricini. May 594.

Since nobody from your people is a Christian, I know that you are better than all of your people, in that you are found to be a Christian among them. For while all of the Barbaricini live like senseless animals, and know not the true God, worshipping sticks and stones, by the very fact that you worship the true God, you show how much you surpass all the others.
But you will need to prove the faith that you have received with good acts also, and to offer to Christ, in whom you believe, what is in your power. Thus you should bring to him as many people as you van, and have them baptized, warning them to love the eternal life.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 308

Ordination

Quote from Letter 4,26 to Januarius, bishop of Cagliari. May 594.

Tt has also come to our attention that some who have lapsed from sacred orders are being recalled to the office of their ministry, either after doing penance, or before it. We have totally forbidden this, and in this matter the most sacred canons also declare against this practice.
Therefore, whoever has received a sacred order and has lapsed in carnal sin, must forfeit his sacred order so as to never again approach the ministry of the altar. But so that those who have been ordained should never be lost to the Church, care should be taken as to what sort of people are ordained, so that the first consideration is whether their life was continent over a great many years, and whether they had a passion for prayer and bible reading and a love of almsgiving. An enquiry should also be made in case one of them was perhaps married twice. Care should also be taken that he is not illiterate, and that he is not liable to state service, and forced to return to public employment after taking orders.
And so let your Fraternity carefully inquire into all of these matters.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 307

Praise

Quote from Letter 4,25 to Zabardas, duke of Sardina. may 594

We offer great thanks to almighty God, because He has such a fine duke, who knows to pay to the republic what are earthly products, so as to know well also to show to almighty God his obedience towards the heavenly kingdom. For indeed they have written to me that you are arranging to make peace with the Barbaricini, on the condition that you bring the same Barbaricini to the service of Christ.
Concerning this matter, I am extremely happy. Should it pleases almighty God, I shall very quickly report your good deeds to our serene emperor.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 306

The Disease Of Sins

Quote from Letter 4,24 to Januarius, bishop of Sardina. May 594

As for the cleric Paul, he is said to have been discovered sinning on many occasions and, despising his habit, he has reverted to life as a layman and has fled to Africa. If that is so, once he has first suffered corporeal punishments, we order him to be handed over for penance.
Thus, in accordance with the apostolic sentence, his spirit may be saved through carnal affliction and with a continuous flow of tears he can wash away the earthly disease of sins, which he is said to have contracted through wicked deeds.
But let no religious person be associated with those who have been suspended from ecclesiastical communion, in accordance with the rules of the canons.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 305

Idolatry

Quote from Letter 4,23 - to the nobles and landowners living on the island of Sardinia. May 594

I suggest that you should with all care and all concern be full of zeal over your souls, and consider what accounts you will render to almighty God of your subjects. For they have been entrusted to you for this purpose, that they might serve your advantage in earthly things, and that you also, through your care of them, might provide for their souls those things which are eternal.
Therefore, if they pay what they owe, why do you not pay what you owe to them? That is, your Greatness should warn them assiduously, and restrain them from the error of idolatry, so that, by leading them back to the faith, you may make almighty God amenable towards yourselves. For look, you see how near the end is closing on this world. You see that now a human sword, and now a divine one threatens us. And yet you worshippers of a true God, do you watch the worship of stones by those entrusted to you, and keep silent?

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 304

Pastoral Circumspection

Quote from Letter 4,22 to Constantius, bishop of Milan. May 594

Summon our aforesaid brother [Venantius] to you and force all the clerics and other religious people of the city named above [Luni] and all of its territory, to come to you, all whose sins are under suspicion. Carefully inquire into everything in accordance with God, on account of the fear of future judgment. If you find that anyone has abandoned the statutes of the canon laws, correct him with a canonical punishment. do not allow those who fail to show in their morality what they show off in their attire, to roam about any longer in your areas while in danger. With your pastoral circumspection, you must bring them back to the straight and narrow.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 303

Law And Slavery

Quote from Letter 4,21 - to Venantius, bishop of Luni. May 594

It has reached us through the reports of many that Christian slaves are being kept for servitude by Jews living in the city of Luni. This matter has seemed to us all the more bitter, as the patience of your Fraternity carried it out. Indeed you were obliged, out of respect of your position and with regard to the Christian religion, to leave no opportunity for simple souls to be slaves somehow to the Jewish superstition, not so much through persuasion as through the right of ownership.
Therefore we exhort your Fraternity, in accordance with the tenor of the most pious laws, not to allow any Jew to keep a Christian slave under his control.
(..) In all of these matters, therefore, we want you to apply yourself wisely so that you are not on trial as pastor of a dismembered flock, and your lack of zeal does not make your Fraternity reprehensible in our view.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 303

An Angry Pope

Letter 4,20 - to Maximus, a pretender in Salona. April 594

Although other aspects of someone's life may have such merit that there is nothing that might prevent him from priestly promotions, yet the sin of bribery on its own is condemned by the most severe punishment of canon laws. And so we have learnt that, by a false or pretended command of our most pious emperor, while you were being unworthy in your way of life, you forced your way into the office of bishop, a highly venerated rank. We believed this then without any hesitation. For we are well aware of your way of life and your age, and furthermore, we are not ignorant of the mind of our most serene Lordship and emperor, knowing that he does not usually involve himself in the cases of bishops, so as not to be burdened in any way by doing us wrong.
Added to this is an unheard of sin. For even after our interdiction that was made pursuant to the excommunication of you and those consecrating you, you were led before the public by a military troop, it is said, after priests, deacons and other clergy had been killed. We can in no way call this a consecration, as men were conducting it who had been excommunicated.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 302

Church of Saint Agatha

Letter 4,19 - to Leo, acolyte. March 594

(Thus) the church of Saint Agatha, situated in Subura, that was once a cave of heretical depravity, has been brought back to the worship of the Catholic faith, by the grace of God. For that reason, armed with the direction of this authority, continue to collect each year the taxes on all the houses built in this city that the aforesaid church is agreed to have hand in the time of the Goths.
However much is necessary for repairing buildings or for lamps, and for other restoration of that church, you must be keen to pay in full. But whatever might be left over, we order you to credit it honestly to the Church accounts.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 301

Against Neglect

Letter 4,18 - to Maurus, abbot of Saint Pancras. March 594

(But) we have learnt that the church of Saint Pancras [in Rome], which was entrusted to priests, has frequently suffered from neglect, to the extent that when people came on a Sunday to celebrate solemn Mass, they found no priest, and returned home muttering.
And so, after due deliberation, we have settled on this decision. We should remove the priests and establish a community of monks in the monastery adjacent to the same church, by the grace of Christ, so that the abbot in charge there should have total control and concern for the aforesaid church.
We have also decided that you, Maurus, should be put in charge, as abbot of the monastery. And we make it a condition that the lands of the aforesaid Church, and whatever has entered there or has accrued from tis financial returns, ought to be directed to the aforesaid monastery of yours, and should apply there without any reduction.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 301

On Randsom

Letter 4,17 - to Felix, bishop of Siponto. December 593

And so, since the above-mentioned Tribunus asserts that he was kidnapped by the enemy and was bought for twelve gold coins, and laments that he is being urged to pay them back, you ought to inquire into this diligently. And if it is so, and you learn that he does not have the funds from which he could pay back the price given for him, repay the aforesaid gold coins to the person who redeemed him, from Church funds.
For it is very hard if he finds no remedy from the Church for which he fights. And so, avoiding any excuse, pay the price that was clearly paid for him, with manifest trust, and without any delay, as we have said already.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 300

Lawful Ordination

Letter 4,16 - to all the bishops in Dalmatia. November 593

But your morals have been so degraded by secular business that, forgetting the whole path of priestly honor within you and all your respect for heavenly fear, you are keen to carry out what pleases you, not God. And so we have thought it necessary to send over to you these stricter words, specially written.
In them, through the authority of Saint Peter, the prince of the apostles, we command that you do not presume to lay your hands on anyone at all in the city of Salona, without our agreement and permission, as far as it concerns the consecration to the episcopate. And do not consecrate anyone in that same city other that as we have stated.
But if you shall have presumed or attempted to act contrary to this either of your own accord, or forced by anyone else, we consider you to be deprived of participation in the body and blood of our Lord.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 299

Safety

Letter 4,15 - to Cyprian, deacon and defender of Sicily. October 593

It has come to our attention that various priests of Italy have fled for safety to Sicily, and have taken with them a great many precious objects from their churches, and this has almost entirely vanished, as priests either died or were badly dispersed.
Concerned about this matter, we exhort your Beloved to send messages throughout all of Sicily. Wherever you have found sacred dishes and church properties located without proper care, have them collected with maximum strictness. And when they have been brought together and recored with a receipt, deposit them with bishops of individual churches. These bishops should preserve them most securely, with the Lord's help, until a time of peace shall demand them.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 299

In Consideration of His Piety

Letter 4,14 - to Maximian, bishop of Syracuse. October 593

The deacon Felix, bearer of this letter, has in no way lapsed into the dogma of the heretics, and has not departed from the Catholic faith, enticed by evil suspicions towards the synod of Constantinopel. But he had removed himself from the separation of the Istrian church.
When he had come to Rome, he received a judgement from us, with the Lord's help, and having received the body of the Lord in communion, he corrected his sinfulness. And so he did not fall into heresy, as has been said, but strayed from the holy mysteries of the universal Church, as if searching for the right intention.
Therefore, we have considered his weakness and his necessities, and making special provision for his maintenance in consideration of his piety, we have provided for him to be incardinated in your church of Syracuse. Thus he may either fulfill his duty as deacon, or certainly may obtain the salary alone of the same office, to support his poverty.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I: 298

Letter 14,13 - to Crementius, primate and bishop of Bizacium. October 593

Our aforesaid brother Quitianus seized an opportunity in this matter, he claims, and consecrated another man as priest there, in his place. We therefore exhort your Fraternity to inquire into his case with careful concern. And if you find that he was absent from his church quite clearly because of the illness, as is argued, you should not allow any prejudice to be created against him through the ordination of another priest. But see that he is restored to his position without any hesitation.
But is the matter is said to differ from the apparent content of the suggestion he offered, inquire into the same man's case according to the law and the canons. Whatever you decide on in accordance with God, take care with the Lord's help to make a decision so that no question about this matter reverts to us any more.

Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), I:297