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Modern Coptic-inspired portrait of Saint Athanasius of Alexandria

4th century

St Athanasius the Apostolic

Ἀθανάσιος Ἀλεξανδρείας

Defender of Nicene faith and teacher of the Incarnation.

Datesc. 296–373 RegionAlexandria, Egypt Primary languageGreek Feast7 Pachans · May 2

Life and significance

A steadfast shepherd of Alexandria

Athanasius served the Church of Alexandria first as a deacon and later as its twentieth pope. He took part in the struggle surrounding the Council of Nicaea and became the most persistent defender of the confession that the Son is truly God and consubstantial with the Father.

Repeatedly exiled from his see, he continued to teach, write, and strengthen his flock. His works include On the Incarnation, theological defenses of Nicene faith, biblical interpretation, and the Life of Antony, which helped carry Egyptian monastic witness throughout the Christian world.

Biography source: The Departure of St. Athanasius the Apostolic · Coptic Synaxarium