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==Early life==

==Early life==

Born of a Christian family in Alexandria, Egypt, and given a classical education. He grew up during the persecution of Christians by Roman Emperor Maximianus and the cancelling of persecution edicts against the Christians by Roman Emperor [[Constantine]]. Legend says that Bishop Alexander of Alexandria was waiting for his guests to arrive, he stood by a window, watching a group of boys at play on the seashore below the house. He had not observed them long before he discovered that they were imitating the elaborate ritual of Christian baptism. He therefore sent for the children and had them brought into his presence. In the investigation that followed it was discovered that one of the boys, Athanasius, had acted the part of the [[bishop]], and in that character had actually baptized several of his companions in the course of their play.<ref>[http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02035a.htm St. Athanasius] Catholic Encyclopedia</ref> Alexander decided that Athanasius and his playfellows should go into training in order to fit themselves for a clerical career. Under the tutelage of Alexander, he made great progress in learning and virtue. He became deacon then priest and from Bishop Alexander's recommendation, Athanasius would replace him as Bishop of Alexandria in 326.

Born of a Christian family in Alexandria, Egypt, and given a classical education. He grew up during the persecution of Christians by Roman Emperor Maximianus and the cancelling of persecution edicts against the Christians by Roman Emperor [[Constantine]]. Legend says that Bishop Alexander of Alexandria was waiting for his guests to arrive, he stood by a window, watching a group of boys at play on the seashore below the house. He had not observed them long before he discovered that they were imitating the elaborate ritual of Christian baptism. He therefore sent for the children and had them brought into his presence. In the investigation that followed it was discovered that one of the boys, Athanasius, had acted the part of the [[bishop]], and in that character had actually baptized several of his companions in the course of their play.<ref>[http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02035a.htm St. Athanasius] Catholic Encyclopedia</ref> Alexander decided that Athanasius and his playfellows should go into training in order to fit themselves for a clerical career. Under the tutelage of Alexander, he made great progress in learning and virtue. He became deacon then priest and from Bishop Alexander's recommendation, Athanasius would replace him as Bishop of Alexandria in 326.