CHAPTER XXX

CELEBRATED BISHOPS OF PONTUS AND OF ASIA, WHO FLOURISHED DURING THIS PERIOD

AMONG the bishops of this period may be mentioned the two Gregories, of whom one was bishop of Nazianzenus, and the other of Nyssa. The one was the brother of the great Basil, and the other his friend and fellow-labourer. They distinguished themselves in Cappadocia by their zeal in defending religion. Peter, the brother of Basil and of Gregory, rendered himself likewise conspicuous by his virtuous life, although he was not deeply versed in general learning. Optimus in Syria, and Amphilochius in Lycaonia, zealously defended the faith, and repelled the attacks of the adversaries. In the West, Damasis, bishop of Rome, and Ambrose, bishop of Milan, successfully combated the designs of the enemies. Those who had been banished to the extremities of the empire, were united with them in spirit, and by their letters strengthened their faith, and animated them against their opponents. In the terrific tempest to which the church was exposed, the Ruler of all things had thus provided skilful pilots and physicians to devise suitable remedies for the evils with which she was then afflicted. But these were not the only means adopted by the gracious Lord for the preservation of the church. He provided likewise in other ways for her safety.