Letter 3047: Having read your letter, beloved, we learn that you have made choice of Honoratus your archdeacon; and know that it is altogether pleasing to us that you have chosen for the order of episcopacy a man tried of old and of grave manner of life. We too join with you in approbation of his personal character, inasmuch as it is already known to us; and...
Gregory to the Clergy of the Church of Salona.
Having read your letter, dear brothers, we learn that you have chosen your archdeacon Honoratus as your candidate for bishop. This is entirely pleasing to us — you have selected for the episcopate a man of proven character and serious conduct. We too can attest to his personal qualities, since his reputation is already known to us, and it has been our own wish as well that he be ordained as your bishop according to your desire.
We therefore urge you to hold firm to this election without any wavering. No circumstances should turn you away from him. Just as this commendable choice now receives our approval, so it would burden your souls and stain your reputation with faithlessness if anyone were to lure you — God forbid — into withdrawing your support from him.
As for those who do not share your preference, we have instructed our subdeacon Antoninus to urge them to come into agreement with you. We have also given him directives regarding our brother and fellow bishop Malchus. Since we have written to Malchus directly as well, we trust he will promptly stop disturbing you. Should he in any way neglect to comply, his defiance will be met with the full severity of canonical punishment.
Human translation — New Advent (NPNF / ANF series)
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