PRACTICE OF THE 14 CONTINUES MORE THAN EVER

CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA   

The Quartodeciman Controversy

This practice led to a significant 2nd-century dispute known as the Easter Controversy, which centered on whether the holiday should follow the Jewish calendar or always be celebrated on a Sunday to honor the Resurrection. 

• Asiatic Practice: Led by figures like Polycarp of Smyrna and Polycrates of Ephesus, these Christians claimed their tradition of celebrating on the 14th of Nisan was inherited directly from the Apostles John and Philip.
• Roman Practice: The Church in Rome and most other regions insisted on a Sunday celebration, citing traditions from Peter and Paul.
• Conflict and Resolution:
  • Pope Anicetus (c. 155): Met with Polycarp to discuss the issue. While neither persuaded the other, they remained in communion.
  • Pope Victor I (c. 189–199): Attempted to excommunicate the Asiatic churches for their non-conformity. He was rebuked by St. Irenaeus of Lyons, who advocated for peace and reminded Victor of his predecessors' moderation.
  • Council of Nicaea (325): Officially settled the matter by decreeing that Easter should be celebrated by all Christians on the same Sunday. 

Aftermath

Following the Council of Nicaea, Quartodecimanism gradually declined and those who continued the practice were eventually regarded as heretical sects, such as the Audaeans. By the 5th century, the practice had largely disappeared. 

THE PRACTICE OF KEEPING THE 14TH AS A MEMORIAL OF THE LORD'S DEATH, CONTINUED WITH PEOPLE AND GROUPS OF PEOPLE, HERE AND THERE, IN THE HILLS AND VALLEYS, AND THE BRITISH ISLES.  IN THE 20TH AND 21ST CENTURY THE PRACTICE HAS ONLY INCREASED THE MORE.