To Theotistus, the Emperor’s Kinsman, on Behalf of the Presbyter John

Gregory to Theotistus, kinsman of the emperor. We know that your excellency’s Christian faith is always intent on good works. So we provide you with occasions for reaping a reward, which you will certainly be glad of, so that by providing them we may have a share in your merits. [a]

We therefore let you know that John the presbyter, who brings this letter, has come out clear of those who had accused him. At his request we held a council and put his faith to a close examination, and we found him innocent of any wrong confession. And since, by the mercy of God, he proved to be one who professes and follows the right faith, we acquitted him by our definite sentence, especially as his accusers admitted that they did not know what the heresy of the Marcionites was that they had spoken of. On this account, greeting you with a father’s affection, we ask you to protect him with the grace of your favor. And so that no one in future may be inclined to afflict him for nothing, or to cause him annoyance in any way in this matter, let your excellency’s advocacy so protect and defend him, and all the more urgently with your own reward in view, that no unjust affliction may wear him down any longer. Then the Creator and Redeemer of the human race, whom you worship with a sincere confession, will repay what you do on his behalf among your many good works. In the month of October, in the fourteenth indiction. [b]