Donatist

involves a controversy arising in Carthage at the beginning of the 4th century and lasted until the 6th century. The dispute centered on the legitimacy of the appointment of imperfect bishops against the popular will of the dioceseis a geographical area in the Catholic Church that is overseen by a bishop. Dioceses are subdivided into parishes. more and the veracity of prayers and sacraments performed by such bishops and priests who were blatantly living a life that did not conform to Christian standards.