Gregory to Fortunatus, bishop of Fanum. Just as it is reprehensible and worthy of punishment for anyone to sell consecrated vessels, except in those cases which the sacred canons prescribe, so it is to be visited with no rebuke or vengeance if for the sake of piety they have been sold off for the redemption of captives. Since therefore, by the report of Your Fraternity, we have learned that you have contracted a loan for the redemption of captives, and have not the wherewithal to repay it, and that on this account you wish, with our authority, to dispose of the consecrated vessels—in this matter, since both the decrees of the laws and of the canons agree, we have taken care to give our consent, and we grant you licence in disposing of the consecrated vessels.
But lest their sale should be able to redound to your ill-repute, it is fitting that, in the presence of John our defensor, they be disposed of up to the amount of the debt, and that their price be paid to the creditors; to the end that, when this matter has been completed with such observance, neither may the creditors suffer the loss of the loaned money, nor may Your Fraternity sustain ill-will now or at any time.