Letter 9210

Gregory the Great (Wisigothic)Unknown|gregory great
From: Pope Gregory I
To: The Clergy, Order, and People of Ariminum [Rimini]
Date: ~599 AD
Context: Gregory commends John, the bishop he has ordained for Ariminum

I am sending to you John, whom I have ordained as your bishop according to the canonical requirements of this see. Receive him with the obedience and affection that his office deserves. A bishop is placed among his people not to be served but to serve — and the people's obligation is to give him the cooperation and loyalty that makes his service possible. I have been careful in my selection of John and I have confidence in his qualities. Make him welcome, and work with him rather than against him as he grows into his role.

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