Letter 9069

Gregory the Great (Wisigothic)Unknown|gregory great
From: Gregory the Great, Pope, in Rome
To: Maurentius, military commander [in Dalmatia or Italy]
Date: ~599 AD
Context: Gregory writes to the military commander Maurentius on a matter that requires his cooperation.

Gregory to Maurentius, military commander.

The matter I am writing to you about requires the cooperation of civil and military authority with the church. I have found in you a man who understands that such cooperation serves both parties; I therefore bring this matter to you with confidence.

The specific situation — described by the bearer of this letter if I have not had time to write at length — requires a decision on your part about the use of your authority. I ask you to exercise that authority in a way consistent with justice and with the church's interests as I have described them.

My gratitude for your continued cooperation.
Gregory

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