Hormisdas to John, Bishop of Nicopolis.

Dear Brother in Christ,

We have received your letters with great joy, in which you declare that you have embraced the priesthood through the grace of God. This affirmation of faith is certain and secure, a testament to the belief that the root of all goodness lies in the divine plan. Being aware of this, dear brother, you rightfully express gratitude for the gifts bestowed upon you by our Lord, a gesture of humility that is itself a divine grace. As it is written: “Upon whom shall my spirit rest, if not upon the humble, and quiet, and those trembling at my words (Numbers 11:25)?” Your embodiment of these virtues shines as an example for others, particularly as you have been called by God to a position where the Catholic Church can be proud of you.

Informed by the teachings of the Apostle and the sacred scriptures, you have commenced your ordination by aligning against those who deviate from the teachings of the Apostolic See. The best way to honor the giver of such great gifts is to display a fervent zeal for apostolic confession against his adversaries.

It is recognized that those who profess faith and confidence yet stand outside the sanctity of the Church are bereft of fruitfulness, despite their apparent alignment with the sanctity of holy communion. This is because one who does not utilize the freedom bestowed upon them is, in effect, admitting submission to sin. What value is there in boasting of disciplines we do not practice? One falsely claims to be a disciple if their actions do not reflect the teachings of their master.

But now, as our beliefs in confession align, and you have reclaimed the spirit of your own freedom, you eagerly rejoin the grace of ancient tradition and stand firm on its unshakable foundation. You do not waver with the times, for changeability is characteristic of the inconsistent. It is therefore essential to remain steadfast in well-founded beliefs, as these pursuits are nurtured by divine grace. Your steadfast faith will not only be fruitful for your own salvation but also ignite the spirit of others to reclaim their own goodness. The holy apostle might well have spoken of you when he said: “Your emulation has provoked many (II Corinthians 9).”

Therefore, having condemned the impieties of Nestorius and Eutyches according to the synodal decrees and abhorring their followers in kind, let us joyfully declare: “Depart from their midst, and separate yourselves, and do not touch the unclean, says the Lord (Leviticus 15).” How can one detest the originators of harmful inventions if they do not shun their followers? How can one hate the root while not cursing the offspring? The reputation of teachers is reflected in their disciples, and as long as the root of harmful teachings is cultivated, the memory of the originators endures.

Let us add to the lost Eutyches and Acacius, a disciple under the communion of Peter, tainted by the error of all the condemned. Your letter clearly indicates this, as you affirm your faith. To provide you with further guidance on your faith, and how to welcome those returning to our communion, we have included an index below. We trust in God, the provider of all goods, that your diligent devotion to faith will benefit not only those in your immediate vicinity but also those reached by the swift fame of your faith and pious intentions.

We have warmly received Rufinus, the deacon who brought us your letters, in the love of Christ. Entrusting him with the prayers of the apostles, we send him back to you in peace. We urge that the letters we have sent, both to you and to the synod, be read to the people, as we have done in commendation of your faith.

Given on the seventeenth day before the Kalends of December, during the consulship of Peter.