A Very Short introduction to St Athanasius will be held over two Monday evening sessions (17th February @ 6:30pm to 7:45pm and 24th February @ 7pm to 8:15pm)  The first session will provide an overview of the context and contribution of Athanasius whilst the second session will provide an opportunity to reflect on and discuss some extracts from his writings.

The life of St Athanasius (c. 295 - 373 AD) the “fiery bishop of Alexandria” is intimately connected with the fourth century formation of the doctrine of the Trinity.  He played a vital role in securing this doctrine in the aftermath of the landmark Church council at Nicaea in 325 AD.  Over the best part of 45 years, he was a forceful and successful advocate of the creedal formula hammered out at Nicaea (which affirmed the full divinity of Christ) in the face of strong “Arian” opposition.

In the process of his campaign, Athanasius travelled widely in both the Western and Eastern parts of the Roman Empire, challenged emperors face to face, was exiled 5 times for his trouble, and lived in hiding alongside monks.

During his career, he also found time to compose an inspirational treatise on the event of the Incarnation, which has been seen as a classic text ever since. His writings speak powerfully of the full divinity of God made man in Christ, and the (salvific) implications of this event for humanity.

These sessions are the third in a series focussing on four important figures from early Egyptian Christianity, spanning the late-second to mid-fifth centuries.  Each set will provide an introduction to the individual in question, covering their life, work and unique contribution to the issues of their day with the aim to provide inspiration and provoke reflection for us in our contemporary setting.

Do I need to have any previous knowledge?
Absolutely no previous knowledge of Church history or theology is assumed (although clergy or readers with some background knowledge will still find much of interest).  If you’ve read all the way down to this bit and are still interested, you’re sufficiently qualified to attend!

Location
These sessions will be held in the Liddon Room at Pusey House (go through the entrance on St Giles', then immediately turn left and go up the stairs).

Do I need to book?
There is no charge for this event, but it would be good to know if you're planning to attend.  And the reading material for the discussion based session will be sent to those known to be attending.  So please do book!