To Protasius, Bishop of Aix, on the Rents of the Patrimony

Gregory to Protasius, bishop of Aix in Gaul. [a]

How great a love for the blessed Peter, prince of the apostles, marks you out is plain not only from the high privilege of your office but also from the devotion you give to what benefits his church. Having learned that this is so from the report of Augustine, the servant of God, who carries this letter, we rejoice greatly over the affection and the zeal for truth that are in you. And we give thanks that, though absent in body, you still show that you are with us in heart and mind, since you show us a brother’s love, as is right.

So that the facts themselves may confirm the good report of you, then, tell our brother and fellow bishop Virgilius to hand over to us the rents his predecessor received for many years and kept in his own hands, for it is the property of the poor. And if perhaps, as we do not believe will happen, he should wish to excuse himself in any way, then you, who know the real truth more exactly, since you served as steward at that time, explain to him how the matter stands, and urge him not to keep in his hands the property of Saint Peter and of his poor. And though our men may perhaps not need it, do not refuse your testimony in the case, so that, for your truthfulness as well as for the devotion of your goodwill, the blessed apostle Peter, for love of whom you do this, may repay you by his intercession both here and in the life to come. We heartily commend to your holiness the presbyter Candidus, our common son, to whom we have entrusted the charge of this patrimony.