The Parish in the De ecclesiis et capellis of Hincmar of Rheims. The Definition of a Norm arising from Current Practice? Hincmar of Rheims wrote his " Collection concerning churches and chapels " in reply to a consultation of King Charles the Bald concerning the " divisions " of parishes that had been instituted by certain bishops towards the middle of the 9th century. The denunciation of this practice by the Archbishop of Rheims was based on the scriptural, patristic and canonical authorities, to which he joined a sort of Episcopal ordinance. The translation of this treatise, which is currently under way, provides an occasion for a new analysis. This article presents only a few main points which demonstrate that the main concern of Hincmar - to preserve the integrity of the ecclesiastical community and the pastoral environment - is also expressed in his correspondence and by his actions as a landlord, bishop and metropolitain.