Today, we celebrate Saint Athanasius, a courageous bishop and Doctor of the Church, who defended the divinity of Christ when the faith was under attack. His unwavering commitment reminds us to boldly live out and defend our Catholic faith, especially when it’s challenged.
Today’s Prayer
O God, who raised up the Bishop Saint Athanasius
as an outstanding champion of your Son’s divinity,
mercifully grant, that rejoicing in his teaching and his protection,
we may never cease to grow in knowledge and love of you.Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.Amen.
📖 Mass Readings for May 2nd, 2025
Memorial of Saint Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church
- First Reading:
1 John 5:1-5
“Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is begotten by God.” - Responsorial Psalm:
Psalm 37:3-4, 5-6, 30-31
“The mouths of the just utter wisdom.” - Gospel:
Matthew 10:22-25
“You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved.”
Saint of the Day: Saint Athanasius
Saint Athanasius (c. 296–373) was the Bishop of Alexandria and is known as one of the greatest defenders of the Christian faith. During a time when Arianism (a heresy that denied the divinity of Jesus) was widespread, Athanasius stood firm, even when it meant facing exile multiple times. He was present at the Council of Nicaea in 325 A.D., where the Nicene Creed — affirming Christ’s divinity — was formulated.
Interesting Facts about Saint Athanasius
- He was exiled five times for defending the truth about Christ.
- Athanasius famously said, “Jesus became what we are so that He might make us what He is.“
- He wrote one of the earliest lists of the New Testament canon.
- He is honored as a Doctor of the Church for his influential theological writings.
