Epistle
XVIII.
To John, Bishop.
Gregory to John, Bishop of Syracuse.
Moved by the benevolence of the Apostolic See and by the
order of ancient custom, we have thought fit to grant to thy
Fraternity, who art known to have received the office of government in
the Church of Syracuse, the use of the pallium; that is, at such times
and in such manner as thou knowest without doubt that it was used by
thy predecessor; nevertheless admonishing thee that, as thou rejoicest
in having received from us the use of this decoration for the honour of
thy priestly office, so also by probity of manners and deeds thou
strive to adorn the office thou hast received unto our glory in
Christ. For thus wilt thou be conspicuous for decorations
mutually answering to each other, if with this habit for the body the
excellence also of thy mind agrees.
For all privileges which are known to have been granted
formerly to thy Church we confirm by our authority, and decree that
they shall remain inviolate.