Donatus of Bagai

Despite being primarily known through hostile reports, notably found in Optatus' "Contra Parmenianum Donatistam" [1] Donatus of Bagai left a lasting impact on the Donatist movement.

In 347, Constans sent two commissioners, Paulus and Macarius, with a considerable amount of money to make an equal distribution among the Donatist and Catholic churches.

In the eyes of Donatus of Bagai, this act was already a successful step toward recognition, and therefore he rejected the insolent bribery and forbade his followers to receive it.

Only the consolation of rumor about your uncounted martyrs of Numidia encouraged the souls of our brothers and sisters" [2]Marculus then went to become one of the great heroes of the dissenting party, venerated in the Donatist text Passio benedicti martyris Marculi.

Bagai experienced continuous persecution under the Romans until a counter-movement, initiated in 390 by the strong bishop, Optatus of thamugadi, led to it regaining its status as a holy city within a short window of 10 years.

Augustine acknowledged the presence of flaws within their communion but maintained that Macarius, even if imperfect, adhered to the Christian law by fighting for unity.

This nuanced perspective reflects Augustine's emphasis on the pursuit of unity within the Christian community, even when faced with the imperfections of individuals involved in the controversy.