Niceta

c. 335-414. He became bishop of Remesiana in the Balkans c. 370, but little is known about his life and work. Information about his work is gleaned from the writings of his contemporary and friend, Paulinus of Nola,* particularly in his poem commemorating Niceta's pilgrimage to Nola to visit the grave of St. Felix, in which is described Niceta's missionary success among the Goths, Scythians, and Dacians. Jerome also writes of the apostolic labors of Niceta, while Gennadius of Marseilles mentions that Niceta wrote at least six books, including instructions for baptismal candidates. There was also an important exposition on the Apostles' Creed, and a short work on the value of Psalm singing in which he makes some interesting remarks about people's attitude when singing in church: “Sing wisely, that is, understandingly, thinking of what you are singing . . . not savouring of the theatre. . . . do not show off. . . . our worship must be done as in God's sight, not to please men.” Paulinus of Nola praises his ability as a hymnwriter, and some scholars attribute the Te Deum to Niceta and not to Ambrose.