Most Clement Emperor Anastasius,

You express a fervent desire for the restoration of longed-for unity, a sentiment filled with the noble pursuit of salvation. Such yearnings are commendable, signaling a devotion that finds favor with God. It is the mark of a wise leader to seek eagerly what he perceives as beneficial. As physical ailments require prompt treatment, the welfare of souls demands an even more urgent response. Scripture teaches us not to delay actions that benefit the soul, echoing Solomon’s wise admonition not to postpone turning to the Lord from one day to the next.

I was indeed surprised at the delay of the legation you had promised, considering the urgency of the task at hand. However, the sentiments expressed in your message inspire hope for divine mercy, for even the desire to do good is a gift from above. I trust that He who has begun this good work in you will bring it to completion.

I encourage you to continue on this path, rejecting the misleading ways of those in error, and stand firm with us upon the solid rock of faith. The unity of the Holy Church grew from such a consensus, as the Acts of the Apostles declare: “The multitude of believers had one heart and one soul.”

Actions, not words, reveal the true intentions of men. Remember Abraham, our father in faith, who pleased God not merely with his belief but through his actions. I urge you, my Lord and Son, to turn the peaceful intentions expressed in your writings into actions to reconcile the issues plaguing the Church. For those who love God’s name, peace and absence of scandal are promised.

The matters dividing us from the unity we seek to restore are not unknown to you. Strive to turn what you profess into reality, following the teachings of the Apostle whose communion we all seek. Reject the harmful and embrace the teachings of the faith, for there is no fellowship between the righteous and the wicked.

It follows that one must reject not only the leaders of heretical movements but also their followers. Offer this sacrifice to God for the well-being of your reign. You do not need to beseech God with words when actions can speak louder. Your Senate has urged me to advocate for peace. In response, I not only join them in their appeal but also prostrate myself before you for the sake of the universal Church.

Hear my plea on behalf of Christ: do not let His body be torn asunder by evil forces. Cut off what cannot be healed and restore what can be salvaged. Why should the healthy be troubled by the presence of the weak? Uphold the order set forth by the unity of the Church and restore the peace you seek for the world. These are my requests now and will remain my persistent pleas, trusting that they will find favor both with God and with you.

Given in Rome, in the year of our Lord 516.