Gregory of Nazianzus the Elder was a 4th-century Christian prelate who served as the bishop of Nazianzus in the Roman province of Cappadocia. Born around 276, he embraced the Christian faith in 325 following the influence of his wife, Nonna. After his conversion, he contributed to the community by financing the building of local churches. He was eventually elected to his episcopal position in 328, though he briefly held Arian views during his life.