Saint Athanasius The Athonite

Biography

Saint Athanasius The Athonite, also known as Atanasio and Abraham, was born around the year 920 in Trebizond. He began his religious studies in Constantinople and eventually joined the monastic community at Saint Michael's monastery in Kymina, Bithynia. Taking the name Athanasius, he dedicated himself to a life of prayer, contemplation, and asceticism. Athanasius's spiritual journey took an unexpected turn when he feared being chosen as the monastery's abbot. Fearing the responsibilities and pressures that might come with this role, he decided to flee to the town of Karyes on Mount Athos, Greece. There, he changed his name and claimed to be illiterate, seeking solace and anonymity in his cell. A turning point in Athanasius's life came in 958 when he chose to become a hermit and live in a cave on Mount Athos. In 961, his old friend from Constantinople, Nicephorus Phocas, sought his assistance in preparing an expedition against the Saracens. Athanasius served as the almoner to the fleet, collecting donations for the cause. Phocas generously gave him a portion of the raised funds, which Athanasius used to establish a monastery on Athos in 963. The monastery founded by Athanasius was unique in its approach. It was called an idiorhythmic house, allowing anchorites, hermits, and monks to live in community but without the typical requirements for group activities seen in other monasteries. Athanasius faced opposition during the establishment of this monastery, but it was ultimately endorsed by imperial decree, and it flourished under his guidance. During the dedication of the monastery, Nicephorus Phocas ascended to the imperial throne. Fearing that he would be called to serve at the imperial court, Athanasius fled to Cyprus. However, Phocas pursued him and assured Athanasius that he would be allowed to continue living his religious life in peace. Phocas even assisted in completing the construction of the monastery. Athanasius was deeply committed to the pursuit of knowledge and spiritual growth. He insisted on Bible study, founded a school, and established a large library within the monastery. His dedication to the physical beautification of the monastery grounds was also evident, as he personally planted hundreds of trees. Under his leadership, the monastery thrived and became a center of spiritual learning and devout worship. Over time, the influence of Athanasius's monastery extended beyond its immediate boundaries. Eventually, there were 58 communities on Mount Athos, with thousands of holy men continuing to live there today. Athanasius's impact on the spiritual and monastic tradition of the region cannot be overstated. Saint Athanasius The Athonite died around the year 1003 when the arch of a church under construction collapsed, tragically taking the lives of him and five of his fellow monks. Though his representation and patronage are not specified, Saint Athanasius's devotion to his chosen path, his commitment to knowledge, and his establishment of a unique monastic community make him a revered figure in the Catholic tradition. He is commemorated on July 5th, and his legacy continues to inspire many in their spiritual journeys.