Hormisdas to Justin Augustus.

The Catholic Church sends its congratulations on the beginning of your venerable reign, most glorious son, as a gift in the hope that, after such a long period of discord, it may find the peace it has sought. There is no doubt that divine providence has raised you to this supreme position so that, in your time, the injuries inflicted upon religion in the Eastern regions may be removed. You have given the first fruits of your empire to the blessed Apostle Peter, and we have received them with gratitude because we firmly believe that, through you, there will soon be peace among the Churches.

May God, who has granted us the joy of addressing your pious mind, bring about the true worship of His religion as we desire. You have stated that the burden of the empire was placed upon you unwillingly and reluctantly, thus demonstrating that you have been chosen by divine judgment, as the Apostle says: “There is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God” (Romans 13:1). It remains, therefore, that as those chosen by God — as we believe you to be — you extend your hands in comfort to the Church that you see is suffering.

Let those who oppose its peace be silenced, let those who, in the guise of shepherds, seek to scatter the flock of Christ, cease. Their correction will strengthen the power of your empire, for where God is worshipped, adversity has no sway. We have not failed to send this letter of congratulations by the illustrious Alexander, hoping, with the help of our God, that through our most illustrious son, you will provide a response on all matters concerning the unity of the Church.

Given in the year of our Lord 518.