Born around 296 in Alexandria, Egypt, Athanasius was born into an esteemed Christian family and was given an education in theology, literature, and philosophy. He made friends with St. Anthony of the Desert and other monks and hermits. After becoming a deacon he served as the bishop’s secretary, and when Arius began spreading heresy, Athanasius joined with those at the Council of Nicaea who defended Church teaching on the divinity of Christ. A few months after the council, his bishop died and Athanasius was unanimously selected to be the new bishop. The Arians tried to have him removed by spreading lies about him, and as a result Athanasius was exiled five times, spending over a third of his episcopate in exile.
CHALLENGE
St. Athanasius of Alexandria was declared a Doctor of the Church for his many writings that explained and defended the truths about the Catholic faith. Sometimes speaking the truth about your faith means facing stiff opposition, and even exile. Today, pray for the strength to always speak the truth about your Catholic faith, no matter the consequences, and trust in God’s providence.
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Have you ever wondered: “How did society get so messed up?” Recipient of a Catholic Writer’s Guild 2022 Seal of Approval, Rebellion answers that question using fast-paced storytelling style, telling you the riveting true story of the war between good and evil that started in the Garden of Eden.
