The Council of Illiberis, or Collioure in Spain, decrees,Ann. 305. Can. 67.[468]
'That it shall not be lawful for any Woman who is either in full Communion or a probationer for Baptism, to Marry, or Entertain any Comedians or Actors; whoever takes this Liberty shall be Excommunicated.'
The first Council of Arles, runs thus,Ann. 314. Can. 5.[469]
'Concerning Players, we have thought fit to Excommunicate them as long as they continue to Act.'
The Second Council of Arles made their 20th Canon to the same purpose, and almost in the same words.Ann. 452.[470]
The Third Council of Carthage, of which St. Augustine was a Member, ordains,Ann. 397. Can. 11.[471]
'That the Sons of Bishops, or other Clergy-men should not be permitted to furnish out Publick Shews, or Plays** Secularia spectacula, which manifestly comprehends the Stage.[472] or be present at them: Such sort of Pagan Entertainments being forbidden all the Laity. It being always unlawful for all Christians to come amongst Blasphemers.
This last branch shews the Canon was Principally levell'd against the Play-House: And the reason of the Prohibition, holds every jot as strong against the English, as against the Roman Stage.
By the 35th Canon of this Council 'tis decreed,
'That Actors or others belonging to the Stage, who are either Converts, or Penitents upon a Relapse, shall not be denied Admission into the Church.' This is farther proof, that Players as long as they kept to their Employment were bar'd Communion.