Gregory the Great (Wisigothic)→Unknown|gregory great
From: Gregory the Great, Pope, in Rome
To: Peter, subdeacon
Date: ~591 AD
Context: Gregory orders the restoration of properties and money belonging to the church of Taormina.
Gregory to Peter, subdeacon, of the church of Taormina [a city in eastern Sicily].
It has come to my attention that properties and funds belonging to the church of Taormina have been improperly withheld or diverted. This is not acceptable. Church property exists for the service of God and the support of the poor, clergy, and the general work of the church; it is not available for private appropriation, however the appropriation may have occurred.
You are to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure that whatever belongs to the church of Taormina is restored to it. Where legal instruments are needed, obtain them. Where persuasion is sufficient, use it first. But the outcome must be that the church receives what is rightfully its.
Report to me when the properties and funds have been restored, noting what was recovered and from whom.
Gregory
Context:Gregory orders the restoration of properties and money belonging to the church of Taormina.
Gregory to Peter, subdeacon, of the church of Taormina [a city in eastern Sicily].
It has come to my attention that properties and funds belonging to the church of Taormina have been improperly withheld or diverted. This is not acceptable. Church property exists for the service of God and the support of the poor, clergy, and the general work of the church; it is not available for private appropriation, however the appropriation may have occurred.
You are to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure that whatever belongs to the church of Taormina is restored to it. Where legal instruments are needed, obtain them. Where persuasion is sufficient, use it first. But the outcome must be that the church receives what is rightfully its.
Report to me when the properties and funds have been restored, noting what was recovered and from whom. Gregory
Modern English rendering for readability. See the 19th-century translation or original Latin/Greek for scholarly use.