Echoes of Antiquity: Possidius, Chronicler of a Saint
Delving into the life and legacy of Saint Possidius, the esteemed companion and biographer of Augustine of Hippo, and a pivotal figure in early North African Christianity.
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Who is Possidius?
A Pivotal Figure
Possidius, a prominent figure of the 5th century, is primarily recognized as a close friend and the definitive biographer of the influential theologian, Augustine of Hippo. His contributions offer invaluable insights into Augustine's life and the ecclesiastical landscape of Roman North Africa.
Bishop of Calama
Beyond his personal connection to Augustine, Possidius served as the Bishop of Calama, a significant city within the Roman province of Numidia. In this role, he was an active participant in the theological and political struggles that defined early Christianity in the region.
Quick Facts
A brief overview of key biographical details:
- Born: Northern Africa
- Died: c. 437 in Apulia
- Venerated In: Catholic Church
- Canonized: August 19, 1672, by Pope Clement X
- Feast Day: May 16
His Life & Ministry
Friendship with Augustine
Possidius maintained an unbroken friendship with Augustine for forty years, a testament to their profound intellectual and spiritual bond. He was also a member of Augustine's monastic clergy, indicating a shared commitment to a communal and ascetic life before his elevation to the episcopate around 397 CE.
Navigating Conflict
As Bishop of Calama, Possidius faced considerable challenges. He established a monastery in an area frequently disrupted by religious factions, particularly the Donatists. His steadfastness led to direct confrontations, including a public discussion challenge to the Donatist Bishop Crispinus (which was refused) and a violent assault by Donatists in 404 CE, where he was beaten and his life threatened. He even interceded on behalf of Crispinus to waive a heavy fine, demonstrating a spirit of Christian charity amidst adversity. In 408 CE, he narrowly escaped death during a pagan riot in Calama.
Ecclesiastical Engagements
Possidius was a prominent participant in the broader ecclesiastical affairs of his time. In 407 CE, he served on a committee at a Council in Carthage. He was also one of four bishops deputed to Italy in 409 CE to seek imperial protection against the Donatists. His role as one of the seven bishops representing the Catholic party at the significant *collatio* of 411 CE underscores his importance. Furthermore, he assisted at the Council of Milevum in 416 CE, where he joined Augustine and other bishops in addressing the emerging threat of Pelagianism, and was present at a conference between Augustine and the Donatist Emeritus.
Exile and Passing
The final years of Possidius's life were marked by the tumultuous Vandal invasion of Africa. He sought refuge in Hippo and was present at Augustine's death in 430 CE. By 437 CE, he, along with other bishops, was persecuted and expelled from his see by the Arian Vandal king Gaiseric. Possidius died shortly thereafter in Apulia, having dedicated his life to the Church and his profound friendship with Augustine.
His Enduring Works
The Vita S. Augustini
Possidius's most significant literary contribution is his *Vita S. Augustini* (Life of Saint Augustine). Composed before the capture of Carthage in 439 CE, this biography stands as the earliest and most authoritative account of Augustine's life. It is an indispensable primary source for scholars studying Augustine, providing intimate details and a contemporary perspective on his character, ministry, and intellectual development. The *Vita* is included in all major editions of Augustine's works.
The Indiculus
In addition to the *Vita*, Possidius compiled an *indiculus*, or "small index," which is a comprehensive list of Augustine's extensive writings. This catalog is crucial for understanding the breadth and depth of Augustine's literary output and for tracking the chronology of his works. The *indiculus* can be found in the final volume of Migne's edition and the tenth volume of the Benedictine edition of Augustine's collected works.
Canonization
Recognition of Holiness
The devotion to Possidius was formally confirmed by Pope Clement X on August 19, 1672. This act recognized his sanctity and his enduring legacy within the Catholic Church. He was canonized alongside his contemporary, Alypius of Thagaste, another North African bishop and close associate of Saint Augustine, further cementing their shared historical and spiritual significance.
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References
References
- "St. Possidius", Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel of the Augustinian Order/ Midwest Augustines
- Province of Saint Thomas of Villanova. รขยยMay 16 - Saints Alypius and Possidiusรขยย. augustinian.org. Accessed 12 Aug 2020
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