CHAPTER XXIV

CONCERNING MELITIUS, THE ORDINATIONS MADE BY HIM, AND THE JUST ENACTMENTS OF THE HOLY COUNCIL

AFTER an investigation had been made into the conduct of Melitius when in Egypt, the synod sentenced him to reside in Lycus, and to retain only the name of bishop; and prohibited him from ordaining any one either in a city or a village. Those who had previously been ordained by him, were permitted by this law to remain in communion and in the ministry, but were to be accounted inferior in point of dignity to other clergy; when by death an appointment became vacant, they were allowed to succeed to it, if deemed worthy by the vote of the multitude, but in this case, were to be ordained by the bishop of Alexandria, for they were interdicted from exercising any power or influence in elections. This regulation appeared just to the synod, for Melitius and his followers had manifested great rashness and temerity in administering ordination. The synod also vindicated the honour of Peter, who had been ordained bishop of the church of Alexandria, but who was obliged to flee during the time of persecution, and had since received the crown of martyrdom.