教牧守則·對話錄與書信 第 452 章

Gregory to Columbus, bishop of Numidia. We have received the letter of your Fraternity, brought by your deacon the bearer of these, in which you have indicated to us the things that were done among you concerning the person of Paul the bishop. This was done so late that the person himself could by now by no means be found here. For our most excellent son Gennadius the patrician also sent his chancellor to us in this same cause. But when we had made inquiry whether he wished to enter into a contest with him in our presence, he answered that he had by no means been sent for this, but only that he had brought hither three certain men from his Church, who were bound to say many things against him.

Since therefore we found neither him prepared to bring forward the proceedings, nor did the quality of those persons move us that they might be found suitable in the accusation of a bishop, we could not oppose delays of contradiction to the oft-named bishop Paul, who was hoping by his entreaties to be permitted to withdraw to the royal city; but we soon permitted him to go, according to his petition, with two other bishops brought along with him. If therefore there were any things which could reasonably be said against him, upon his coming hither your Fraternity ought—as it now has done—to indicate everything in detail.

For that you have signified you suffer the enmities of many because of this, that we visit you rather frequently with our letters—it is not to be doubted, most reverend brother, that good men endure the hatreds of the wicked, and that those intent upon divine works are torn by the adversities of the perverse. But the more these things which are depraved surround you, the more earnestly you ought to be occupied in the care of governance committed to you, and to watch over the guardianship of Christ's flock; and the more the contrariety of the wicked presses you, the more should the care of pastoral solicitude, most certain of the promised reward, kindle you to be more eager, so that you may be able to offer to the Chief Shepherd gain from the work enjoined upon you.