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ALEXANDER died about this time, and Paul succeeded to the
high priesthood of Constantinople. The followers of Arius and
Macedonius assert that he took possession at his own motion, and
against the advice of Eusebius, bishop of Nicomedia, or of
Theodore, bishop of Heraclea, in Thrace; upon whom, as being the
nearest bishops, the right of conferring ordination devolved. Many,
however, maintain, on the testimony of Alexander, whom he
succeeded, that he was ordained by the bishops who were then assembled
at Constantinople. For when Alexander, who was ninety eight years
of age, and who had conducted the episcopal office vigorously for
twenty three years, was at the point of death, his clergy, asked him
to whom he wished to turn over his church. "If," replied he, "you
seek a man good in Divine matters and one who is apt to teach you,
have Paul. But if you desire one who is conversant with public
affairs, and with the councils of rulers, Macedonius is better."
The Macedonians themselves admit that this testimony was given by
Alexander; but they say that Paul was more skilled in the transaction
of business and the art of eloquence; but they put emphasis for
Macedonius, on the testimony of his life; and they accuse Paul of
having been addicted to effeminacy and an indifferent conduct. It
appears, however, from their own acknowledgment, that Paul was a man
of eloquence, and brilliant in teaching the Church. Events proved
that he was not competent to combat the casualties of life, or to hold
intercourse with those in power; for he was never successful in
subverting the machinations of his enemies, like those who are adroit
in the management of affairs. Although he was greatly beloved by the
people, he suffered severely from the treachery of those who then
rejected the doctrine which prevailed at Nicaea. In the first place,
he was expelled from the church of Constantinople, as if some
accusation of misconduct had been established against him. He was then
condemned to banishment, and finally, it is said, fell a victim to
the devices of his enemies, and was strangled. But these latter
events took place at a subsequent period.
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