Chapter 44

Our Apostles also knew through our Lord Jesus Christ that there would be strife for the title of bishop.

For this cause, therefore, since they had received perfect foreknowledge, they appointed those who have been already mentioned, and afterwards added the codicil that if they should fall asleep, other approved men should succeed to their ministry.

We consider therefore that it is not just to remove from their ministry those who were appointed by them, or later on by other eminent men, with the consent of the whole Church, and have ministered to the flock of Christ without blame, humbly, peaceably, and disinterestedly, and for many years have received a universally favourable testimony.

For our sin is not small, if we eject from the episcopate those who have blamelessly and liolily offered its sacrifices.

Blessed are those Presbyters who finished their course before now, and have obtained a fruitful and perfect release in the ripeness of completed work, for they have now no fear that any shall move them from the place appointed \o them.

For we see that in spite of their good service you have removed some from the ministry which they fulfilled blamelessly.