CHAPTER 50: His voyage to Rome [c. 703]
CHAPTER 50
His voyage to Rome [c. 703]
WHEN we learned of the tragic calamity that had befallen both ourselves and all the congregations attached to us, we spent the time, until Bishop wilfrid’s party was ready to embark, in fasting and tears, praying and beseeching the Lord. They set sail and, with God before to guide them, reached the southern shores. Then, with the help of the holy apostles, they made their way overland and reached Rome on foot. On being presented at the papal court they went down on bended knee and begged with all urgency that the Holy See should receive the written account of the reason for their coming and show its usual kindly indulgence by disregarding the rusticity of style and lack of polish in the composition of the document.
‘We wish your Holiness to understand that we have not come here to accuse anyone out of spite but simply to hear whatever objections might be brought against us by our opponents and, with the help of your clemency, to do our best to refute them if false or admit them if true. Under the protection of our Creator and with the help of the Prince of the Apostles we have sought refuge in this most glorious see, as though in our mother’s lap and are completely prepared to bow to your authority.’
Pope John gave our holy prelate and his venerable priests and clergy a very warm welcome and provided free lodging for them so that they could enjoy a few days’ rest while awaiting a decision from the illustrious see of Rome.1 Archbishop Berhtwald’s representatives happened to arrive at the same time as Wilfrid with written accusations and had begged a hearing for their claims. The pope, therefore, called all his fellow-bishops and clergy together to form a synod. Wilfrid and his party were presented and the meeting began with a reading of his petition. It ran as follows.