To Ravennius of Arles, on Making the Tome Known

To his dearly beloved brother Ravennius, Leo the pope.

We have kept our sons Petronius the presbyter and Regulus the deacon a long time in the city, both because they deserved this by the favor they have in our eyes, and because the needs of the faith, which is now being attacked by the error of some, demanded it. For we wanted them to be present when we discussed the matter, and to learn everything that we wish to reach the knowledge of all our brothers and fellow bishops through you, beloved. We give this charge especially to you, dear brother: that through your watchful care our letter, which we have sent to the East in defense of the faith, or else that of Cyril of blessed memory, which agrees with our views throughout, may become known to all the brothers. Then, furnished with arguments, they may fortify themselves with spiritual strength against those who think fit to insult the Lord’s incarnation with their false beliefs. You have a favorable opportunity, beloved brother, of commending the beginning of your time as bishop to all the churches and to our God, if you carry out these things in the way we have charged and directed you. As for the matters which were not to be put on paper, once you have learned about them from the mouths of our sons named above, you will carry them out effectively and admirably, as we have said, relying on God’s help. God keep you safe, dearest brother. Dated the 5th of May, in the consulship of the most glorious Valentinian, for the seventh time, and of the famous Avienus (in the year 450). [a]