Gregory of Nyssa was a fourth-century Christian bishop, theologian, and mystic, born around 335 in Cappadocia, in what is now central Turkey, and dying around 394 or 395. He was the younger brother of Basil of Caesarea and the close friend of Gregory of Nazianzus; together they are known as the Cappadocian Fathers. After receiving a classical education, Gregory worked as a teacher of rhetoric before entering ecclesiastical life. His brother Basil appointed him bishop of Nyssa, a small town in Cappadocia, around 372. Gregory was briefly removed from office during theological and political conflict with supporters of Arianism, but he later returned and became an influential defender of Nicene Christianity. He took part in major church councils, including the Council of Constantinople in 381. Gregory’s writings helped articulate the doctrine of the Trinity, especially the full divinity of the Holy Spirit and the unity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He is also known for his teaching on the endless growth of the soul toward God, often called epektasis: because God is infinite, the soul’s participation in God can deepen without limit. His major works include The Life of Moses, On the Making of Man, The Great Catechism, and sermons and commentaries on Scripture, particularly the Song of Songs and the Beatitudes. He is regarded as one of the most profound theologians of the Greek-speaking early Church. His thought combines philosophical learning, biblical interpretation, sacramental theology, and a strongly mystical account of human transformation into the likeness of God.
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