Donatist

Example:The Donatist schism created deep divisions within the Christian community in North Africa, lasting for centuries.

Definition:A religious split between orthodox Christians and Donatists in the early Christian Church in North Africa, particularly over issues of church discipline, especially the readmission of former clergy who had lapsed during persecution and the church's response to apostates.

Example:The Donatist–Catholic debate was a significant theological issue during the early Christian period, contributing to the wider understanding of church authority and doctrine.

Definition:A theological and ecclesiastical dispute between Donatists and Catholics regarding the validity of sacraments administered by churches and clergy considered invalid by the Donatists.

Example:From the Donatist perspective, only those clergy who remained faithful during periods of persecution could properly administer sacraments.

Definition:A viewpoint or set of beliefs held by Donatists, emphasizing moral purity and the importance of spiritual qualifications in ecclesiastical leadership.