Augustine's Critique of the Donatist Conception of Holiness

This chapter explores Augustine's response to the Donatist perspective on holiness, where he criticizes their emphasis on saintly priests and the belief that God only forgives sins through the prayers of bishops. Augustine presents his own view of priesthood as flawed individuals in need of God's forgiveness, highlighting biblical examples and the importance of priests following the apostles' lead. He also discusses the potential sins encountered by pastoral ministers and reminds them of Christ's call to participate in the apostolate.