At the turn of 3-4 centuries, a boy was born in Alexandria of Egypt, thanks to which Orthodoxy was preserved in the form in which we know it. Athanasius was from a Christian family, regularly attending services conducted by Bishop Alexander of Alexandria. One day the bishop witnessed Christian children baptizing pagans. The role of bishop was played by Athanasius. Alexander did not find a single mistake in the whole ritual. All words and actions were exactly what he used. The bishop invited the young Athanasius to his service, and then appointed him deacon. Athanasius had an inquiring mind, was well educated, but most importantly, was firm and invincible in faith.
After the death of Alexander, he took the post of bishop and instructed his flock in teaching. There was much discussion about the faith and the role of the Trinity in it. Bishop Arius argued that Christ was not born a God-man, but that the Lord created him like all living things. Arius found many admirers, from ordinary people to emperors. Many Christian leaders shared his views. But not Athanasius. He considered Arianism a heresy and made reproaching speeches, wrote epistles and scientific works, proving the invalidity of the doctrine.
Athanasius was among the initiators of the Council of Nicaea, which adopted the creed, which we repeat to this day.
The enemies could not accept this, and Athanasius received denunciations and complaints. He was tried three times and exiled from Alexandria. The second trial was very revealing. He was accused of murdering the clergyman Arseny and was ready to be sentenced to death, as Arseny himself suddenly appeared, alive and healthy. Twice Athanasius himself left the city, fearing reprisals. 20 years of exile, many hardships — that was the price of perseverance in faith.
At the end of his life, Athanasius finally returned to Alexandria, where he led the flock until his death in 373.
Memorial Day
31 January
May 15
The Holy Land Charitable Foundation
Lives of Saints
