Gregory of Nazianzus, Basil of Caesarea and John Chrysostom (Cambridge, University Library, MS Nn.1.23)

At the top of the first column, a decorative rectangular headpiece features red and black interlaced floral and geometric patterns, characteristic of 12th-century Byzantine illumination. Below it, the initial letter 'A' of the main text is a large, ornate drop cap in red ink, decorated with scrolling vine motifs.

By our father among the saints, Gregory the Theologian, Archbishop of Constantinople: Oration 1, on his delay.

original: "τοῦ θεολόγου" (the Theologian). This is a title reserved in the Orthodox tradition for only three figures: John the Evangelist, Gregory of Nazianzus, and Symeon the New Theologian.

It is the Day of Resurrection, and a propitious beginning! Let us be brightened by the festival and embrace one another. Let us say "Brothers" even to those who hate us—much more to those who, out of love, have done or suffered anything for our sake. Let us forgive all things because of the Resurrection; let us grant pardon to one another. I, who was subjected to a noble tyranny Gregory refers to his forced ordination and the pressure put upon him by his father and his friend Basil of Caesarea to take up ecclesiastical duties, which he initially fled. (for I now add this), and you, who exercised that noble tyranny, if you find any fault in me for my delay—for perhaps this delay is better and more precious before God than the haste of others. For it is good to withdraw before God for a little while, like Moses of old and Jeremiah later, and then to run forward readily when He calls,

as did Aaron and Isaiah. Gregory compares himself to the prophets: Moses and Jeremiah initially hesitated or felt unworthy to speak for God, while Aaron and Isaiah responded with immediate readiness. He argues both attitudes can be pious. Only let both be done with piety: the one on account of one’s own weakness, the other on account of the power of Him who calls.

A mystery anointed me; a mystery led me to withdraw for a little while, just enough to examine myself. In mystery I now enter in, bringing this Day as a good defender and helper of my cowardice and weakness—the day which He who rose from the dead today has established. He has made the one who is in the spirit rise with Him, and has clothed the new man, a gift to the new creation. To all who are born according to God, He is a good guide and a kind teacher. The Lamb is sacrificed willingly; even yesterday the Lamb was slaughtered, drawing all to Himself. The doorposts were anointed, and Egypt mourned her firstborn, but the Destroyer A reference to the Passover in Exodus, where the blood of the lamb protected the Israelites from the Angel of Death. passed us by; for the seal is awesome and venerable, and we were fortified by the precious blood. Today, we have purely escaped?