Gregory, the son of two saints, Basil and Emmilia, grew up in modern-day Turkey with his older brother, St. Basil the Great, and his sister, Macrina. Gregory's academic achievements indicated that he will achieve great things in the future. Once he was appointed as a rhetoric professor, he was convinced to focus his studies and energies on the Church. Gregory continued to study for the priesthood and get ordained even though he was already married because, at the time, priests were not required to be celibate.

In 372, during a time of intense controversy over the Arian heresy—which rejected Christ's divinity—he was chosen to be the Bishop of Nyssa, which is located in Lower Armenia. Gregory's return to his seat in 378, following a brief detention on the spurious charge of embezzling church funds, was greatly greeted by his people.

Gregory truly came of age with the passing of his cherished brother Basil. Known for his strong writings opposing Arianism and other uncertain doctrines, he established himself as a champion of traditional beliefs. In 383 he was dispatched on missions against other heresies and was a prominent member of the Council of Constantinople.

Over the decades, his great reputation progressively faded as the identity of the author of his writings grew increasingly hazy. However, it remained with him for the remainder of his life. However, his stature is once more recognized because of the research done in the 20th century by academics. He made important contributions to the Nicene Creed and the doctrine of the Trinity.

He died in 394 and his feast day is celebrated on January 10th.

Other Saints of the Day
Saint Agatho
Saint Petronius
Saint Peter Urseolus
Saint William of Bourges
Saint John Camillus the Good