Saint Gregory of Nyssa, born in 335 and deceased in 394, was notably the offspring of two saints, Basil and Emmilia. Raised in present-day Turkey, his upbringing was heavily influenced by his elder siblings, St. Basil the Great and Macrina. Gregory’s academic prowess hinted at a promising future. Initially a professor of rhetoric, he later transitioned to ecclesiastical pursuits, influenced by his marriage and deep religious convictions. Despite not being bound by clerical celibacy laws at the time, he was ordained as a priest.

In 372, Gregory ascended to the role of Bishop of Nyssa, located in Lower Armenia, during a tumultuous era marked by the Arian controversy, which challenged Christ’s divinity. His tenure was briefly marred by a wrongful arrest over alleged embezzlement from the Church. However, his reinstatement in 378 was celebrated by his followers.

The passing of his brother, Basil, marked a turning point for Gregory. He emerged as a formidable opponent against Arianism and other theological disputes, solidifying his status as a guardian of Christian orthodoxy. His contributions were recognized in significant ecclesiastical assemblies, including the Council of Constantinople.

While Gregory’s legacy waned over time due to uncertainties surrounding his works’ authorship, 20th-century scholarly efforts have restored his prominence. Today, St. Gregory of Nyssa is revered not only as an orthodox figure but also as a seminal influence on Christian mysticism and monastic traditions.

Editorial credit: hramikona / Shutterstock.com
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8 COMMENTS

  1. Dear Lord only you could forgive me for a day like this one, I don’t know if it would do any good to say I’m sorry, please have mercy on me when judgement day comes.. Thank you

  2. PRAYER OF ST. GREGORY OF NYSSA
    For God’s Goodness To Us Sinners

    Lord, from You flows true and continual kindness.
    You had cast us off and justly so,
    but in Your mercy You forgave us.
    You were at odds with us,
    and You reconciled us.
    You had set a curse on us,
    and You blessed us.
    You had banished us from the garden,
    and You called us back again.
    You took away the fig leaves
    that had been an unsuitable garment,
    and You clothed us in a cloak of great value.
    You flung wide the prison gates,
    and You gave the condemned a pardon.
    You sprinkled clean water on us,
    and You washed away the dirt.

  3. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be Loved throughout the world, amen!
    O, my Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I ask for the conversion of sinners, myself and for my daughter and family Amen!

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