St. Athanasius
Feast Day: May 2
“If the world is against the truth, then I am against the world.” – St. Athanasius
St. Athanasius, bishop, theologian, and Doctor of the Church, is honored as a fearless defender of the divinity of Christ during one of the greatest theological crises in Church history. His feast day, celebrated on May 2, commemorates his unwavering stand against heresy and his role in safeguarding the truth of the Catholic faith.
A Defender of the Incarnate Word
Athanasius was born around 296 A.D. in Alexandria, Egypt, and received a strong Christian education. As a young deacon, he accompanied Bishop Alexander of Alexandria to the Council of Nicaea in 325, where the Church formally condemned Arianism, the heresy denying that Jesus Christ is fully God.
Athanasius played a key role in formulating the Nicene Creed, which proclaims Jesus as “true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father.”
Bishop of Alexandria and Exiled for Truth
In 328, Athanasius became the Bishop (Patriarch) of Alexandria, a position he would hold for 45 years, though much of that time was spent in exile due to his refusal to compromise with Arian heretics, who had powerful political influence.
Athanasius was exiled five times, spending nearly 17 years in hiding or banishment, but he never wavered in defending the truth that Jesus Christ is fully God and fully man.
A Teacher of Orthodoxy
During his exiles, Athanasius wrote extensively, producing some of the most important theological works of the early Church. His most famous writing, “On the Incarnation,” explains with clarity and beauty how the Word of God became man for the salvation of the world.
He also wrote the “Life of St. Anthony,” which became one of the most influential biographies of any saint, helping spread monasticism throughout the Christian world.
A Hero of the Nicene Faith
Despite constant opposition, slander, and threats, Athanasius stood firm. His fidelity earned him the title “Athanasius Contra Mundum”—“Athanasius Against the World”—because he stood nearly alone against widespread heresy.
By the end of his life, the truth of the Nicene faith was vindicated, and his teachings became the foundation for orthodox Christology in both the East and West.
Doctor of the Church and Father of Orthodoxy
Athanasius died in 373 A.D., revered as a champion of truth. He was later declared a Doctor of the Church for his contributions to theology and his defense of the faith.
He is often called the “Father of Orthodoxy” for his pivotal role in defending and preserving the true teaching about Christ.
A Witness to the Courage of Faith
St. Athanasius’s life reminds the faithful that defending the truth sometimes requires courage, perseverance, and even suffering. His example inspires all Catholics to hold fast to the truth of Christ, no matter the cost.
St. Athanasius, pray for us!