Book VI, Letter 18

To John, Bishop.

Gregory to John, Bishop of Syracuse.

Moved by the benevolence of the Apostolic See and by the order of ancient custom, we have thought fit to grant to your Fraternity, who art known to have received the office of government in the Church of Syracuse, the use of the pallium; that is, at such times and in such manner as you know without doubt that it was used by your predecessor; nevertheless admonishing you that, as you rejoice in having received from us the use of this decoration for the honour of your priestly office, so also by probity of manners and deeds thou strive to adorn the office you have received unto our glory in Christ. For thus will you be conspicuous for decorations mutually answering to each other, if with this habit for the body the excellence also of your mind agrees.

For all privileges which are known to have been granted formerly to your Church we confirm by our authority, and decree that they shall remain inviolate.