(Greek: thauma, wonder; ergo, work)
Confessor, Bishop of Neocaesarea, born Neocaesarea in Pontus (Asia Minor), 213; died there, 270. Of a noble pagan family, he was educated for the career of a lawyer. Converted to Christianity by Origen, Gregory took up the study of philosophy and theology. Consecrated Bishop of Neocaesarea c.240,he converted the inhabitants by his preaching and miracles. When he became bishop there were only 17 Christians in his flock and at his death there were but 17 pagans in the whole town of Caesarea. He was present at the First Council of Antioch against Paul of Samosata. Because of the great number of miracles he performed, Gregory is called the "Wonder Worker." He is also well known as a writer and some of his chief works are: "Oratio Panegyrica," in honor of Origen; "Tractatus ad Theopompum," on the passibility and impassibility of God; "Epistola Canonica," an explanation of the organization of the churches of Pontus under Gregory; and "Exposition of the Faith," showing Gregory's idea of the Trinity. Patron of those in desperate situations; invoked against inundations. Relics: Saint Peter's, in the Vatican, and Lisbon. Feast, Roman Calendar, November 17,.