Saint of the day May 2: Saint Athanasius. Catholic Saints

Meanwhile, the controversy in Alexandria reached the ears of Emperor Constantine, who decided to put an end to the debate by sending a conciliator. Unfortunately, the controversy had already spread throughout almost the entire Christian East and Constantine’s measures did not give much result. The emperor knew that this controversy had to be resolved promptly and its spread in the West prevented – it was known that it was a potential danger to the stability and unity of both the Empire and the Church.

On the death of Bishop Alexander, Athanasius, by acclamation, was elected as his successor. From that moment on, the saint was recognized as a defender of the true faith, something that was evidenced by his participation in the Council of Nicaea. Simultaneously, he became the great enemy of the heretics, who still had power and influence, especially among political figures and some bishops. The Arianists did not stop harassing Athanasius until they managed to have him exiled from Alexandria.

The successor to the imperial throne, Constantius II (son of Emperor Constantine), was under the influence of the Arian bishop Eusebius of Nicomedia. On his side, Atanasio was already a regular target of attacks from political circles.