When the Danetians originally settled in the land of Dobrudja, they converted to Orthodox Christianity, thereby securing an alliance with the Byzantine empire.

However, by the early 15th century, the Byzantine empire was in steep decline. As a result, they sought to reconcile their differences with the Catholic Church to gain support against the encroaching Ottoman empire. This culminated in the Bull of Union with the Greeks, issued by Pope Eugenius IV during the Council of Florence in 1439. Being under Byzantine jurisdiction, the Danetians therefore entered into communion with Rome.

When this union with Rome was rejected by the Orthodox laity a few years later, the Danetian church decided to remain loyal to Rome. As a result, Pope Sixtus IV issued the following decree in 1476, confirming the fidelity of the Danetians.

Decretus pro Danetis

Sixtus, Bishop, Servant of the Servants of God, for perpetual memory.

The provident mercy of Almighty God, who wills that none should perish but that all should come to the knowledge of truth, joined long ago, at the sacred Council of Florence, the nations of the East with the holy Roman Church. Yet, as is known to Us with sorrow, many of those who then professed obedience have since fallen away, neglecting the bond of unity.

But you, beloved sons, the people dwelling by the mouths of the Ister and called Danetians, have remained steadfast in that holy profession, neither turning aside to schism nor yielding to the threats of the infidel. Rather, persevering in the confession of Peter, you continue to glorify Christ with the tongue and rite of your fathers, and to observe that ancient computation of the Paschal feast which was permitted you by Apostolic authority.

Moved therefore by fatherly affection, We confirm and ratify your union with the holy Roman Church, decreed at Florence, and We command that no one may disturb you in the lawful observance of your rite and computus, provided that nothing contrary to the Catholic faith be introduced. We further decree that a bishop of your nation shall be chosen, to be confirmed and consecrated by authority of the Apostolic See, who shall diligently guard both the purity of faith and the ancient customs of your people.

Let no man infringe this Our confirmation or rashly oppose it. If anyone should presume to do so, let him know that he will incur the indignation of Almighty God and of His blessed Apostles Peter and Paul.

Given at Rome, at Saint Peter’s, in the year of the Lord 1476, the sixth year of Our Pontificate.

Sixtus PP. IV