Canon
CXVIII. (Greek cxix.)
How bishops as well Catholic as those who have been
converted from the Donatists are to divide between themselves the
dioceses.
So
, too, it has seemed good that
if a bishop has been converted from the Donatists to Catholic unity,
that equally there should be divided what shall have been so found
where there were two parties; that is, that some places should pertain
to one and some to the other; and let the division be made by him who
has been the longest time in the episcopate, and let the younger
choose. But should there be only one place let it belong to him
who is found to be the nearer. But should the distance be equal
to each of the two cathedrals let it belong to the one the people may
choose. But should the old Catholics wish their own bishop, and
if the same be the case with the converted Donatists, let the will of
the greater number prevail, but should the parties be equal, let it
belong to him who has been longest bishop. But if so many places
be found in which there were both parties, that an equal division is
impossible, as for example, if they are unequal in number, after those
places have been distributed which have an equal number, the place that
remains over shall be disposed of as is provided above in the case
where there is but one place to be treated.
Notes.
Ancient Epitome of Canon
CXVIII.
Those who have been converted from Donatus, let them
divide the dioceses; and let the senior bishop make the division, and
the junior choose which he will.
This is Canon x. of Carthage,
a.d.
418.