Caecilianus, or Cécilian, was deacon and bishop of Carthage in 311, succeeding Mensurius. In conflict with certain members of his community, his ordination as a bishop was at the origin of the Donatist schism, in 312. One of the bishops who had ordained him, Felix of Abthugni, was accused of being a traditor ; having failed, a sacrament issued by him was considered invalid by the Donatists.
Caecilianus was repeatedly confirmed by the authorities as the legitimate bishop of Carthage. In October 313, he went to Miltiade, at the same time as Donat, where he was confirmed. The Council of Arles of 314 confirmed it once again.
The Emperor Constantine seized the case, he was summoned and detained in Italy. The emperor innocent him on November 10, 316.
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