Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers: Series II/Volume II/Socrates/Book VI/Chapter 12

.&#8212;Epiphanius, in order to gratify Theophilus, performs Ordinations at Constantinople without John&#8217;s Permission.

long after this, at the suggestion of Theophilus, the bishop Epiphanius again came from Cyprus to Constantinople; he brought also with him a copy of the synodical decree in which they did not excommunicate Origen himself but condemned his books. On reaching St. John&#8217;s church, which is seven miles distant from the city, he disembarked, and there celebrated a service; then after having ordained a deacon,

he again entered the city. In complaisance to Theophilus he declined John&#8217;s courtesy, and engaged apartments in a private house. He afterwards assembled those of the bishops who were then in the capital, and producing his copy of the synodical decree condemnatory of Origen&#8217;s works, recited it before them; not being able to assign any reason for this judgment, than that it seemed fit to Theophilus and himself to reject them. Some indeed from a reverential respect for Epiphanius subscribed the decree; but many refused to do so among whom was Theotimus bishop of Scythia, who thus addressed Epiphanius:&#8212;&#8216;I neither choose, Epiphanius,&#8217; said he, &#8216;to insult the memory of one who ended his life piously long ago; nor dare I be guilty of so impious an act, as that of condemning what our predecessors did not reject: and especially when I know of no evil doctrine contained in Origen&#8217;s books.&#8217; Having said this, he brought forward one of that author&#8217;s works, and reading a few passages therefrom, showed that the sentiments propounded were in perfect accordance with the orthodox faith. He then added, &#8216;Those who speak evil of these writings are unconsciously casting dishonor upon the sacred volume whence their principles are drawn.&#8217; Such was the reply which Theotimus, a bishop celebrated for his piety and rectitude of life, made to Epiphanius.