Athanasius
(Athanasius of Alexandria)
298–373
Saint Athanasius was one of the most important saints in the early years of the church. He is best known for his tireless work
of resisting the Arian Heresy, but he is also credited with collecting the 27 books that eventually became the New Testament.
He was bishop of Alexandria from 328 until his death in 373, but he was exiled many times due to the ongoing Arian controversy,
and underwent many hardships and oppressions. Nevertheless,
his treatise Against the Gentiles—On the Incarnation was very influential in
defining the orthodox position against the Arians, and the heresy was eventually abolished.
Key events during the life of Saint Athanasius:
| Year |
Event |
| 319 |
Arius,a presbyter from Alexandria begins preaching the doctrine that later became the Arian heresy. |
| 325 |
Athanasius accompanies Alexander, bishop of Alexandria, to the First Council of Nicaea. |
| 328 |
Succeeded Alexander as bishop of Alexandria. |
| 335 |
Exiled to Trier. |
| |
Wrote treaties Against the Gentiles—On the Incarnation, rebutting the claims of Arianism. |
| 367 |
Wrote a letter defining the canon of New Testament Books. |
| |
Spent time with hermits and monks during numerous exiles from Alexandria. |
| 382 |
Athanasius's New Testament canon officially promulgated by Pope Damasus. |
Other Resources
| Contemporary |
Short Biography |
| Alexander of Alexandria |
Bishop of Alexandria that preceded Athanasius. |
| Constantine |
First Christian emperor. Unified empire. Moved capital to Constantinople near Black Sea. |
| Arius |
Founder of the Arian Heresy, which insisted that the Son was not eternal, but created by the Father. |