Free English Translation
Letter to the Emperor Constantius
Epistola ad Constantium Imperatorem
~1 min read · by Eusebius of Vercelli
About Letter to the Emperor Constantius
This short letter, written by Eusebius of Vercelli from exile at Scythopolis around 356 to 360 AD, is addressed directly to the emperor Constantius. Eusebius greets him with formal deference, acknowledging that he has received both the emperor's own letter and word from fellow bishops urging him to give a full account of himself before those the emperor has appointed to hear it. He announces that he has judged it necessary to come to Milan in person, and closes by promising that whatever proves just and pleasing to God in the emperor's presence, he will do. The tone is respectful but unyielding, a bishop answering an imperial summons on his own terms.
By Eusebius of Vercelli. Collected in Patrologia Latina, Volume 12.
First Letter. To the Emperor Constantius
Eusebius to Constantius, Emperor Augustus, greeting. I, most clement emperor, seeing that your devoted mind desires this—namely, how ecclesiastical peace might endure throughout the world—received your letter with great joy. I also received letters from my brothers and fellow bishops, by which they deigned to make known to me that a full account should be given to me through those very persons whom yours command to obey; I judged it necessary to hasten to come to Milan. Whatever, lord emperor, when I shall have come into your presence, shall seem just and pleasing to the Lord, that I promise I will do. May God keep you, most glorious emperor.
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