March 9
Gregory of Nyssa (+395)
religious
He was born in Caesarea del Ponto and spent his entire life in Cappadocia, Türkiye.
Biography
He is one of the greatest doctors of the Church. Together with Saint Basil, his older brother, and Saint Gregory of Nazianzus, his friend, he formed the triad of the Cappadocians. They are usually characterized by saying that Basil was the arm that acts, Gregory of Nazianzus, the mouth that speaks, and Gregory of Nyssa, the head that thinks. He was a fundamental architect of the fight against Arianism thanks to his writings and his decisive intervention in the Council of Constantinople (381), when the dogma of the Holy Trinity was defined. Being bishop of Nisa, he dedicated himself to teaching literature and even got married. Gregory of Nazianzus said of his wife, Theosabia, that she was “a saint and a true wife.” Theosabia preceded him a year or two on the way to the grave. We have left a monumental work of his, among which his mystical writings stand out, which contain incomparable richness.
Practical advice
During this journey, teach a truth of faith with clarity and affection and offer that effort for someone who needs help.