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St. Athanasius

St. Athanasius

c. 296 – 373
Feast
May 2 · IV c.
Patron of
Theologians · Defenders of orthodoxy · Alexandria
Order
Bishop / Doctor of the Church

Greek bishop of Alexandria (c. 296-373) and Doctor of the Church; the leading defender of the divinity of Christ against Arianism for half a century, exiled five times for his orthodoxy. Author of the Life of St. Anthony. Feast May 2.

Life & Times

Also known as: Athanasius of Alexandria · Born: c. 296 · Died: 373 · From: Egypt.

Patronage

St. Athanasius is invoked as the patron of theologians, defenders of orthodoxy, alexandria. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.

“God became man so that man might become God.”
— On the Incarnation (De Incarnatione Verbi Dei), Chapter 54 (c. 318 AD)

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About Catholic Saints

Catholic saints, including St. Athanasius, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.