Saint of the day, February 26 – Zeale
Little is known of Alexander’s early life. He became the bishop of Alexandria in 313 and defended Catholic teaching against the heresy of Arius, who claimed that Jesus was not truly divine. Arius was also a personal enemy of Alexander because Alexander was given the see of Alexandria and Arius was not.
February 26 – St. Alexander
Born: 3rd century
Died: 328
Nationality: Egyptian
Vocation: priest
Attributes: Bishops garments
Canonization: pre-congregation
Little is known of Alexander’s early life. He became the bishop of Alexandria in 313 and defended Catholic teaching against the heresy of Arius, who claimed that Jesus was not truly divine. Arius was also a personal enemy of Alexander because Alexander was given the see of Alexandria and Arius was not.
In 325 Alexander took part in the Council of Nicea, where the heresy of Arianism was condemned and Arius and his followers were exiled. Alexander brought as a companion to the council St. Athanasius, who was a deacon at the time.
Alexander returned to Alexandria and, after naming Athanasius his successor, died in 328.
In addition to his stalwart defense of the faith, Alexander was also known for his charity to the poor.
St. Alexander, pray for us.
