Pope Gregory the Great → John of Jerusalem
Tradução moderna em inglês
Book III, Letter 30
To John, Subdeacon [Gregory's representative].
Gregory to John.
Since it is clear that the Apostolic See [the papacy], by God's ordering, is set over all churches, there is among our many responsibilities none we take more seriously than ensuring the proper governance of the churches that look to us.
We have been informed that certain irregularities have occurred in the area under your oversight. We direct you to investigate immediately and report your findings. Where you discover abuses, correct them with the authority we have given you. Where matters are beyond your ability to resolve, refer them to us with full documentation.
Remember always that the authority you exercise is delegated. You act in our name, and therefore your conduct reflects directly on this See. Be just in all your dealings, impartial in your judgments, and tireless in your care for the poor and the oppressed.
Send us your report at the earliest opportunity.
Texto inglês de origem
Book III, Letter 30 To John, Subdeacon. Gregory to John, etc. Inasmuch as it is manifest that the Apostolic See is, by the ordering of God, set over all Churches, there is, among our manifold cares, special demand for our attention, when our decision is awaited with a view to the consecration of a bishop. Now on the death of Laurentius, bishop of the church of Mediolanum, the clergy reported to us that they had unanimously agreed in the election of our son Constantius, their deacon. But, their report not having been subscribed, it becomes necessary, that we may omit nothing in the way of caution, for you to proceed to Genua (Genoa), supported by the authority of this order. And, inasmuch as there are many Milanese at present there under stress of barbarian ferocity, you must call them together, and enquire into their wishes in common. And, if no diversity of opinion separates them from the unanimity of the election — that is to say, if you ascertain that the desire and consent of all continues in favour of our aforesaid son, Constantius — then you are to cause him to be consecrated by his own bishops, as ancient usage requires, with the assent of our authority, and the help of the Lord; to the end that through the observance of such custom both the Apostolic See may retain the power belonging to it, and at the same time may not diminish the rights which it has conceded to others.