February 26 is the feast day of Saint Alexander
February 26 is the feast day of Saint Alexander, named after the Patriarch of Alexandria who led the Church during the early 4th century. He is known for his struggle against Arianism, a heresy that held that Christ was inferior to the Father. Saint Alexander exerted a great influence, mentoring Saint Athanasius, who succeeded him as patriarch and continued his defense against heretical doctrine.
During his episcopate, Alexander faced many challenges, including disputes over the date of Easter and the defamation of Meletius of Lycopolis. His main struggle was against Arianism, and he was responsible for excommunicating Arius, the main propagator of this heresy, and calling the Council of Nicaea, which, in 325, definitively condemned the doctrines of Arius and established the formula of the consubstantiality of Christ with the Father.
Saint Alexander was an astute and courageous leader, who dedicated his life to the defense of the true Christian faith. He died in 328, after naming Saint Athanasius as his successor. His contribution to the Church is remembered to this day, not only for his action against Arianism, but also for his intelligence and kindness.
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