Letter 5050

Gregory the Great (Wisigothic)Unknown|gregory great

Gregory to John, abbot of Reggio [Reggio Calabria].

Matters pertaining to the correction of religious persons are things we neither ought nor is it fitting for us to overlook. It has come to our attention that many offenses are being committed in the monastery of Saint Andrew, which is situated near Vulcanum [likely a volcanic area near Reggio Calabria]. Therefore, by the command of our authority, it is necessary that you proceed to that monastery and investigate everything that is reported with careful inquiry. And if you find matters to be as alleged — God forbid — you shall punish those responsible according to the Rule, so that fitting discipline may teach them to abstain from wicked and unlawful acts hereafter.

Modern English rendering for readability. See the 19th-century translation or original Latin/Greek for scholarly use.