Saint Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

Born of a Christian family in Alexandria, Egypt, and given a classical education, Saint Athanasius became secretary to Alexander, the bishop of Alexandria, entered the priesthood, and was eventually named bishop. 

When Saint Athanasius assumed his role as bishop of Alexandria, he continued the fight against Arianism. At first, it seemed that the battle would be easily won and that Arianism would be condemned. This did not prove to be the case. The Council of Tyre was called and for several reasons that are still unclear, the Emperor Constantine exiled Athanasius to northern Gaul. This was to be the first in a series of travels and exiles reminiscent of the life of Saint Paul.

After Constantine died, his son restored Saint Athanasius as bishop. He was exiled five times for his defense of the doctrine of Christ’s divinity. Among his ascetical writings, Saint Athanasius'  Life of St. Anthony achieved popularity and contributed greatly to the establishment of monastic life throughout the Western Christian world.