4th Blog Donatist Schism

The Donatist Schism came about through the old issue of Laxism versus Rigorism when it came to the treatment and dealings of those who compromised the governing authorities during the great persecution under Emperor Diocletian. The Schism was said to come about because of a wealthy lady named Lucilla who challenged church authority when she had practiced the custom of kissing the bone of a martyr before partaking of the communion service. There were problems with the election of two Bishop Candidates who failed to win the position of Bishop. Mensurius, trying to protect church property, had entrusted these valuables to older members who were no longer able to return the valuables when asked by Caecilian to return after the persecution had past. Some believe that they refused to return the church possessions. Felix, The Bishop of Aptunga was accused of giving copies of the Scriptures to the authorities at the time of persecution; this made him look like a traitor and was accused so. The question was raised about the moral character of clergyman and the validity of their actions on behalf of the church. Donatus became the Bishop of the rival church in Carthage after the death of Majorinus; his followers became known as Donatists. With all these problems in the church Emperor Constantine called a council to deal with the issues; this became known as The Council of Arles. This council of Arles set a precedent for how the state would deal with church problems hereafter. The Character of the clergy is very important to the integrity of the church as a whole. They must be answerable not only to God but to the institution that they represent. It all boils down to each individuals commitment to God and to the honour of oneself and ones church; ones personal integrity. When it comes to my personal character it is important to know myself, my strengths and weaknesses and how they affect people; how can my character best serve God.