Writings in Connection with the Donatist Controversy

Writings in Connection with the Donatist Controversy is a collection of theological works written by Augustine of Hippo during the late fourth and early fifth centuries.

The writings address the Donatist schism, a conflict that divided Christianity in North Africa. Augustine argues that the Church should remain universal and united rather than separating itself into communities that claim exclusive spiritual purity.

A central issue is whether sacraments performed by sinful, heretical, or schismatic ministers can still be valid. Augustine maintains that the power of baptism comes from Christ, not from the personal virtue of the person administering it, and therefore baptism should not be repeated when someone returns to the Catholic Church.

Through scriptural interpretation, historical arguments, and responses to Donatist leaders, the collection explores the nature of the Church, the meaning of Christian unity, and the relationship between faith and authority. These writings became highly influential in the development of Christian teachings about baptism and the sacraments.

"In the treatise which we wrote against the published epistle of Parmenianus to Tichonius, we promised that at some future time we would treat the question of baptism more thoroughly; and indeed, even if we had not made this promise, we are not unmindful that this is a debt fairly due from us to the prayers of our brethren."

This edition of Writings in Connection with the Donatist Controversy was translated into English by John R. King (1835–1907).