Apostolic Authority and Celtic Liturgies: from the Vita Samsonis to the Ratio de cursus
Constant J. Mews
Little is known for certain about how British and Irish monks understood the role of liturgy in early middle ages, prior to imposition reforms time Charlemagne (768–814). Precious insight can be gained, however, through examining two treatises that might seem at first sight very different from each other. One Vita Samsonis ( VIS ), remarkable its recollection a saint remembered as travelling initially south Wales Ireland back, then, via Cornwall, Brittany. Dated either late seventh or mid-eighth century, it presents Samson bishop who attached great importance his liturgical duties tradition went back apostles. The other Ratio de cursus Explanation Liturgies , written perhaps century defend apostolic authority both Gallican liturgies equal validity alongside East, Milan, (mentioned only briefly) those followed Rule Benedict. While Bede portrayed narrowly traditionalist their way calculating date Easter, Life identify practices deriving authority. Comparing these texts allows us see traditions Roman practice consolidation during age Charlemagne. with also enables assess extent which records memories going sixth transmitted by an unidentified nephew Samson's cousin Enoch, projects concerns later generation onto Samson. Of particular significance account how, being consecrated Dubricius bishops, had vision three martyrs, Peter, James, John, episcopal crown.