Μνήμη and πρόνοια as catalysts of fear and shame. The practical instructions for salvation given by Gregory of Nyssa in his sermons

Abstract

Memory (μνήμη) is not among Gregory of Nyssa’s most commonly used words; in his sermons, however, it does feature a number of times and in most cases it is in direct relation with the theme of salvation. In his homiletic career the bishop of Nyssa proposed a rich teaching regarding the possibility of salvation that man has, and he also goes into some detail explaining in what way and by which means salvation may be achieved. In short we can say that man can be saved thanks to the collaboration of two main factors: Christ’s salvific actions and man’s actions. It is in the latter part that memory features most. Gregory, however, rarely speaks of the memory of Christ’s passion and resurrection which helps man in his journey towards salvation. He speaks a lot, though, of man’s memory of his own sins and other negative experiences in life that help him avoid sinning in the future. His basic mantra on this issue is that a vivid memory instils fear of damnation and shame for repeating one’s sins. In this study I propose to highlight the various instances where the Nyssen speaks of memory in his numerous homilies, and also outline the positive consequences this exercise has on the believer during his earthly journey.