Letter 3033: He who administers faithfully what is other's shows how well he dispenses what is his own. And this your Glory makes manifest to us in that, intent on your annual offering, you have rendered the blessed Peter, Prince of the apostles, the fruits of his revenues. In paying him what is his faithfully, you have made these gifts to him your own.

Pope Gregory the GreatDynamius, Patrician|c. 592 AD|Pope Gregory the Great|Human translated
arianismbarbarian invasionimperial politicsproperty economicsslavery captivity
Barbarian peoples/invasions; Military conflict

Book III, Letter 33

To Dynamius, Patrician of Gaul [a high-ranking nobleman in Frankish territory, likely in Provence].

Gregory to Dynamius, Patrician of Gaul.

One who faithfully administers what belongs to another demonstrates how well he would manage his own affairs. Your Glory has shown this clearly through your devoted care for the patrimony of the blessed Apostle Peter [church estates in Gaul] which you have overseen with integrity and dedication.

We are deeply grateful for your faithful stewardship. The revenues from these estates provide essential support for the poor and for the operations of the Church, and your honest management ensures that these funds reach those who need them most.

We commend to your continued protection the bearer of this letter, who has business concerning the patrimony. Please extend to him your customary assistance so that he may carry out his duties effectively.

We also ask that you continue to support the Catholic bishops in your region. The Church in Gaul faces unique challenges [surrounded by Frankish politics, Arian influences, and competition among powerful bishops], and the steady hand of a loyal and influential layman like yourself is invaluable.

May God reward your faithfulness abundantly, both in this life and in the life to come. We send you our blessing and our gratitude.

Human translationNew Advent (NPNF / ANF series)

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