Hierarch Saint Athanasius the Great, Archbishop of Alexandria

Saint Athanasius the Great (c. 297–373) was Archbishop of Alexandria and the foremost defender of Nicene orthodoxy against Arianism, earning the title "Father of Orthodoxy." Born in Alexandria to a Christian family, he was educated at the Alexandrian catechetical school.

In 325, as a young deacon, he accompanied Bishop Alexander to the First Ecumenical Council at Nicaea, where he played a decisive role in defending the doctrine that the Son is consubstantial (homoousios) with the Father. In 328, at age 28, he was elected Archbishop of Alexandria. Of his 45 years as bishop, roughly 20 were spent in exile — he was banished five times for refusing to compromise with Arian-sympathizing emperors and bishops.

Despite relentless persecution, he remained steadfast in defending Nicene doctrine and was eventually restored to his see shortly before his death. He authored foundational theological works, including "On the Incarnation of the Word" and the "Life of Anthony." He reposed on May 2, 373, in Alexandria.