To the Bishops of the Province of Arles, on Ravennius’s Election

To his dearly loved brothers Constantinus, Audentius, Rusticus, Auspicius, Nicetas, Nectarius, Florus, Asclepius, Justus, Augustalis, Ynantius and Chrysaphius, Leo the pope. [a]

We have just and reasonable cause for rejoicing when we learn that the Lord’s priests have done what agrees both with the rules of the fathers’ canons and with what the apostles established. For the whole body of the church must grow with a healthy growth if its governing members excel in the strength of their authority and in peaceful management. So we ratify with our approval your good deed, brothers: on the death of Hilary of holy memory, you unanimously consecrated our brother Ravennius, a man well approved by us, in the city of Arles, in accordance with the wishes of the clergy, the leading citizens and the laity. For an election made in peace and harmony, where neither personal merit nor the good will of the congregation is lacking, is, we believe, the expression not only of human choice but of God’s inspiration. So, dearly loved brothers, let this priest use God’s gift, and let him understand what devotion is expected of him, so that by carrying out the office entrusted to him with diligence and prudence he may prove equal to your testimony and fully worthy of our favor. God keep you safe, beloved brothers. Dated the 22nd of August, in the consulship of Asturius and Protogenes, in the year 449. [b]