Aurelius of Carthage

Aurelius of Carthage was a Christian bishop in the 4th and 5th centuries CE, serving in the city of Carthage in Roman North Africa. He was a significant figure during a period of intense theological debate within the early Christian church.12

Aurelius, along with other African bishops, played a crucial role in opposing the teachings of Pelagius and his disciple Celestius. Pelagianism was a doctrine that emphasized human free will and the ability to achieve righteousness through one's own efforts, rejecting the concept of original sin and the necessity of divine grace for salvation.31

Aurelius and his fellow bishops condemned Pelagianism at two councils held in Carthage in 416 and again in 418 CE. This opposition was strongly supported by St. Augustine, the influential bishop of Hippo, who argued for the necessity of God's grace. The condemnation of Pelagianism at these councils was a pivotal moment in early Christian history, helping to shape orthodox Christian doctrine regarding sin, grace, and salvation.31