Athanasius was a fourth century Church Father and theologian. He was the bishop of Alexandria, Egypt, one of the most important centres for the early Church. He participated in the famous Council of Nicaea in 325 AD.
Athanasius was an opponent of Arianism, a heresy that taught that Jesus was a created being. This was dealt with at Nicaea but was an ongoing concern for the church. H e was one of the four great Eastern Doctors of the Church.
Athanasius encountered conflict with various Roman emperors and this resulted in numerous exiles. His ministry was far from easy.
He is known for the theological work that helped to develop our understanding of the Trinity. His letter written in 367 AD is the first list of New Testament books that is exactly the same as our current New Testament. His influence on Christianity cannot be overstated.
