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Modern Coptic-inspired portrait of Saint Gregory of Nazianzus

4th century

St Gregory the Theologian

Γρηγόριος ὁ Θεολόγος

The Theologian whose orations clarified the Church’s confession of the Trinity.

Datesc. 329–390 RegionCappadocia and Constantinople Primary languageGreek FeastJanuary 25

Life and significance

The voice of Trinitarian theology

Gregory was born near Nazianzus, received an extensive classical education, and formed a lifelong friendship with Basil the Great while studying in Athens. Drawn to prayer and quiet, he nevertheless accepted priestly and episcopal service during a period of intense controversy.

In Constantinople his sermons at the small Church of the Resurrection helped restore Nicene faith in the imperial city. His Theological Orations, letters, poems, and autobiographical writings unite doctrinal precision with pastoral sensitivity and literary power.

Biography source: Saint Gregory the Theologian, Archbishop of Constantinople · Orthodox Church in America