Letter 50004: To the most merciful Emperors, Gratian, Valentinian, and Theodosius — the Council of Aquileia.

From: The Council of Aquileia (led by Ambrose of Milan) To: Emperors Gratian, Valentinian II, and Theodosius Date: ~381 AD Context: A second letter from the Council of Aquileia, requesting the emperors to address the ongoing crisis in the Eastern church, particularly the contested see of Constantinople and the rival claims of Maximus the Cynic. To the most merciful Emperors, Gratian, Valentinian, and Theodosius — the Council of Aquileia. We have dealt with the matters within our own jurisdiction, and the Arian remnant in the West has been formally condemned. But we cannot be silent about the troubles in the East, for the Church is one body, and when one part suffers, all parts suffer with it (1 Corinthians 12:26). Reports have reached us that the church of Constantinople [the imperial capital of the East] is in turmoil. The ordination of one Maximus the Cynic [a controversial figure who attempted to have himself consecrated bishop of Constantinople through irregular means] has created a scandalous division. We do not recognize this ordination: it was accomplished by stealth, without the consent of clergy or people, and by bishops who had no authority to act in that city. We request that your Clemency convene a general council at which these matters can be properly resolved. The peace of the whole Church depends on right order in the great sees. Alexandria, Antioch, Constantinople — if these are in disorder, the entire communion is shaken. We also commend to your care the orthodox bishops who have endured exile and persecution for the Nicene faith. They have suffered much, and their restoration to their sees would be an act of justice that would honor both your throne and God's altar. May the God of peace guide your deliberations.

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