The Donatists: A Schismatic Community

The Donatists are a group of Christians who are a part of a schismatic community that emerged shortly after the end of the Diocletian persecution in 305 AD. Their doctrine is based on the fact that only those who are ecclesiastically pure are able to administer valid prayers as sacraments. They also believe that in order for the ministries of the priests and bishops to be effective, the clergy member must be faultless. However, regardless of the Dontaists’ reasons for separating themselves from the Church at Carthage, the origin of their reasons for separating themselves from the Catholic church is questionable.

The Origin of the Donatists Community From the account of Optatus in his treatise, On the Schism of the Donatist, he credits
Knowing this, Felix’s accusers brought the issue of his status as a traditore before emperor Constantine. However, because Constantine wisely decided that the accusations against Felix could not be proven and continued to provide him with the imperial finances and exempted the clergy who were in communion with Constantine from paying taxes. Constantine's involvement was also another major milestone for the church. The state was now taking an active role in church matters. Needless to say, in support of Caecilian as bishop, in October 313, Miltiades,the bishop of Rome was appointed by Constantine to uphold Caecilians election. By mid 314, the council of Arles was also called to uphold Caecilians
For example, the Dontasits believe that it is impossible for a bishop or priest to have a successful ministry without being faultless, yet the disciple Peter denied Christ three times but as still chosen by Christ to the rock on which Christ will build his church. While it is ideal for all Christians to stand firm in the midst of persecution, in the third and fourth centuries, Christianity was still a newly formed religion and the people of that day may not have had enough knowledge about Christ through canonical scripture to stand firm on the Word of God. Although it is written that Christ will deny anyone who denies Him, it is also written that God had sent an advocate to work and intercede on behalf of the Christian and because of God’s grace humanity is able to be reconciled God regardless of any situation. As Cyprin put in his treatise, On Unity of the Church, only God has the power the true power to forgive sins. As humanity and God’s creation we must remember that it is our duty to enforce God’s law but only He can administer the true punishment for anyone who breaks