The Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee honored St. Athanasius on Monday, the anniversary of his death, by thanking his defense of the doctrine of Christ’s divinity.

“Today we honor St. Athanasius of Alexandria, the fourth-century bishop known as ‘the father of orthodoxy,’” the diocese posted on Facebook. “He’s remembered for his confident defense of the doctrine of Christ's divinity.” 

As a youth, St, Anthony and the monks in the Egyptian desert took St. Athanasius under their wing and taught him. 

“From the First Ecumenical Council of Nicea to his appointment as Bishop of Alexandria and beyond, Athanasius fought to uphold the divinity of Christ against multiple opponents,” the diocese posted.

He was stalwart in his beliefs, continuing to stand up for them despite being exiled several times and withstanding attacks on his clergy and followers.

St. Athanasius was born in Alexandria near the end of the third century. Britannica acknowledges that he is remembered for his efforts to defend the faith against Arianism. Athanasius was responsible for contributing to or authoring several important works, Britannica says, including “The Life of St. Antony,” “On the Incarnation,” and “Four Orations Against the Arians.” 

Athanasius became Bishop of Alexandria in 328, following Bishop Alexander’s tenure, catholic.org reports. His feast day is celebrated on May 2, which is the anniversary of his death. 

He is one of a few dozen who have earned the title of doctor of the church and is the patron saint of theologians and the Catholic faithful. A pope can bestow the title “Doctor of the Church” on a person who has made significant and lasting contributions to the church, Crossroads Initiative explains. 

To be considered for the title, someone must meet three requirements. Crossroads Initiative lists them as: holiness that is truly outstanding, even among saints; depth of doctrinal insight; and an extensive body of writings which the church can recommend as an expression of the authentic and life-giving Catholic Tradition.