DONATISTS

A religious faction, which arose in Africa in the beginning of the 'Ith century in opposition to Cecilianus, bishop of Carthage. The Numidian bishops were indignant at a slight received from him at the time of his consecration, and declared him informally appointed, on account of their absence from the ceremony. They also accused him of unworthy conduct during the Diocletian persecution. There are two persons of the name of Donatus celebrated as leaders of thig party. Their cause was heard before several councils (those of Aries, Milan, and Carthage), in all of which they were pronounced schismatics. The Donatists, however, continued to be a powerful faction for more than 100 years, and raised at various times great wars and commotions. The name of Cir cum cell i ones was given to the numerous bands of country people of the lowest ranks who took up arms in their cause. St.August in was most succe ful in bringing public opinion to bear against the Donatists. DONATIVE, in Law, is a benefice merely given and collated by the patron, without presentation or induction. DONJON, or [s. 372]