Athanasius

Athanasius of Alexandria (c. 296/298 – 373) was a Greek Church Father and bishop of Alexandria who played a central role in the defense of Trinitarian orthodoxy against Arianism. He is often called Athanasius the Great for his theological influence.

Born in Alexandria, he became a deacon and secretary to Bishop Alexander. After Alexander’s death, Athanasius was chosen to succeed him as bishop of Alexandria around 328. His tenure coincided with intense controversy over the nature of the Son, and he argued for the full divinity of Christ and for the Son’s consubstantial relationship with the Father, opposing Arius and his followers. Because of his steadfast stance, he was exiled several times by imperial authorities and local rulers who at times leaned toward Arian or semi-Arian factions, living in places such as Trier before returning to Alexandria.

Athanasius produced a substantial body of theological writings and letters. His De Incarnatione Verbi Dei (On the Incarnation of the Word) articulates Christ’s humanity and divinity in a way that reinforced Nicene doctrine. He wrote defenses against the Arians, as well as numerous orations and pastoral letters. He is also the author of the Life of Antony, which helped popularize monasticism in the Christian East.

He remained a leading church figure until his death in 373. His work helped shape later Trinitarian theology and the Nicene Creed, and his writings influenced both Eastern and Western Christianity. He is venerated as a saint in many traditions and is regarded as a Doctor of the Church in Catholicism; his feast day is celebrated on May 2 in many calendars.