CHAPTER 52: Pope John declares that the writings of his predecessors are to be examined
CHAPTER 52
Pope John declares that the writings of his predecessors are to be examined
AFTER the full text of our petition had been read out and given a hearing by the illustrious assembly, we were given leave to retire to our lodgings and the envoys of Archbishop Berhtwald were called in to present their documents. The accusations they brought against Wilfrid were many and serious. The court, therefore, promised that both parties would be called at some future date and that each count would be thoroughly examined in turn. It then bade them withdraw and Pope John addressed his fellow-bishops.
‘Members of this holy synod, it is our duty first of all to go through the canons of our holy predecessors, and examine the documents treating of these injuries and wrongs sent by either party up to now. We must bear in mind and carefully weigh what blessed Agatho and Benedict and my holy predecessor Sergius thought of the matter, and what orders they gave the kings and archbishops. After that, with the help of God and the Prince of the Apostles, we shall be in a better position to stamp out falsehood and perceive the light of truth when we have both sides before us in the presence of our brethren contesting against each other. We shall follow the canons and judge according to the rules laid down by our predecessors.’
The whole synod was pleased with this plan and proceeded to put it into action.