Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers: Series II/Volume XII/Leo the Great/Letters/Letter 40

To the Bishops of the Province of Arles in Gaul.

To his well-beloved brethren Constantinus Audentius, Rusticus, Auspicius, Nicetas, Nectarius, Florus, Asclepius, Justus, Augustalis, Ynantius, and Chrysaphius , Leo the pope.

He approves of their having unanimously elected Ravennius, Bishop of Arles.

We have just and reasonable reason for rejoicing, when we learn that the priests have done what is agreeable both to the rules of the Father&#8217;s canons and to the Apostles&#8217; institutions.&#160; For the whole body of the Church must needs increase with a healthy growth, if the governing members excel in the strength of their authority, and in peaceful management.&#160; Accordingly, we ratify with our sanction your good deed, brethren, in unanimously, on the death of Hilary of holy memory, consecrating our brother Ravennius, a man well approved by us, in the city of Arles, in accordance with the wishes of the clergy, the leading citizens, and the laity.&#160; Because a peace-making and harmonious election, where neither personal merits nor the good will of the congregation are wanting, is we believe the expression not only of man&#8217;s choice, but of inspiration.&#160; So dearly beloved brethren, let the said priest use  gift, and understand what self-devotion is expected of him, that by diligently and prudently carrying out the office entrusted to him, he may prove himself equal to your testimony, and fully worthy of our favour.&#160; keep you safe, beloved brethren.&#160; Dated 22 August in the consulship of Asturius and Protogenes (449).