Saint Athanasius of Alexandria, also known as Athanasius the Great and Athanasius the Apostolic, was a Christian theologian, bishop, and Church Father who lived from around 296/298 to 373 AD. He served as the Bishop of Alexandria for 45 years, during which he became one of the most influential figures in Christianity, particularly in the development of Orthodox Christian doctrine. His life and works were pivotal in the establishment of the Nicene Creed, which is central to Christian theology.
Athanasius was born in Alexandria, Egypt, and received a Christian education. He was well-versed in Christian theology as well as Greek philosophy. His early career was marked by his association with Bishop Alexander of Alexandria, during which he attended the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD as a deacon.
This council was convened by Emperor Constantine to address the Arian controversy, which questioned the divinity of Jesus Christ. Athanasius played a significant role in the council, staunchly opposing Arianism and defending the doctrine that Christ is of the same substance (homoousios) with the Father, a position that was eventually adopted by the council and incorporated into the Nicene Creed.
Following the death of Bishop Alexander, Athanasius became the Bishop of Alexandria in 328 AD. His episcopacy was marked by constant conflict with Arian sympathizers and several Roman emperors, leading to him being exiled five times. Despite these challenges, Athanasius remained a vocal and unwavering defender of Nicene Christianity against Arianism and other theological threats.
Athanasius is perhaps best known for his work “On the Incarnation,” in which he articulates the doctrine of Christ’s divinity and humanity, and for his defense of the canonical status of several New Testament books. His annual festal letter of 367 AD is the first known list to identify the same 27 books of the New Testament that are in use today.
His steadfast commitment to Orthodox Christian doctrine, despite persecution and exile, earned him a reputation as a defender of the faith. Athanasius’s contributions to Christian theology, especially his defense of the doctrine of the Trinity and the divinity of Jesus Christ, have had a lasting impact on Christianity.
May his prayers be with us, and may our Lord always have the glory. Amen
