Quote from Letter 8.13 to Adeodatus and Maurentius, bishops of Africa. The same [letter] each. February 598
(But) if there are some things which offend the sincerity of your Beloved selves, and exceed the rules of canonical discretion, be keen to concentrate on vigilance, and through encouragement, persuasion and fear, strive to emend them, preserving the unity of charity, as far as your strength allows, with God's help.
Strive to restrain the one responsible for excess with the bridle of coercion, in a priestly manner, and bring him back from his trackless journey, leading him with your tongue and action. Thus your should exhibit your efficacy in all things, so that almighty God, who is the author of goodwill and examiner of intention, may be willing to aid you here and reward you in a future life.
(But) if there are some things which offend the sincerity of your Beloved selves, and exceed the rules of canonical discretion, be keen to concentrate on vigilance, and through encouragement, persuasion and fear, strive to emend them, preserving the unity of charity, as far as your strength allows, with God's help.
Strive to restrain the one responsible for excess with the bridle of coercion, in a priestly manner, and bring him back from his trackless journey, leading him with your tongue and action. Thus your should exhibit your efficacy in all things, so that almighty God, who is the author of goodwill and examiner of intention, may be willing to aid you here and reward you in a future life.
Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II, 511
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