To Aetherius, Bishop of Lyons, on a Bishop Who Has Lost His Reason

Gregory to Aetherius, bishop. [a]

What we have to say grieves us deeply, and brotherly compassion moves us to weep rather than lets us lay down rules about what we have heard. Yet concern for the government we have taken on pricks our heart with an urgent spur to look with great care to the good of the churches, and to arrange what must be done before their interests suffer past repair. Reports from certain persons have reached our ears that a certain bishop has been struck by an illness of the head, so that it brings groans and tears to hear what he is in the habit of doing when he is out of his mind. So, lest the flock be left open, while the shepherd is sick, to be torn by the teeth of the one who lies in wait, which God forbid, or lest the interests of the church itself suffer past repair, we must deal with the case with careful foresight. Now, while a bishop is living whom unavoidable sickness, and not crime, has withdrawn from his office, no reason allows another to be ordained in his place except on his resignation. So, if he usually has intervals of sanity, let him himself make a petition, declaring that he is no longer equal to this ministry because sickness has overthrown his powers of mind, and let him ask that another be ordained in his place. When this has been done, let another man who is worthy be solemnly consecrated bishop in his place, by the election of all; yet on condition that, as long as life keeps the sick bishop in this world, the same church supply him with what he needs. If, however, he never recovers a sound mind, a trustworthy person of proven life must be chosen, one fit to govern the church: to take thought for the good of souls, to hold the unruly under the bond of discipline, to take care of the church’s property, and to show himself mature and capable in every respect. And should he outlive the bishop who is now sick, he should be consecrated in his place.

But as for ordinations of presbyters or deacons, or of any other order, if there is need for any to be made in that church, know that this is reserved to your fraternity, so that, since the church lies in your diocese, you may inquire into the life, manners and conduct of the man chosen for such an office. And if you are satisfied, and there is nothing in him open to the censure of the strict canons, let him reach the order intended for him in no other way than by your ordaining him. Let your fraternity, then, proceed in this way, and arrange these things with watchful foresight, so that the church of God may no longer suffer from any neglect, and so that you may urge your fellow priests, not only by word but also by example, to take praiseworthy care of the venerable places. [b]