St. Achillas

St. Achillas, a revered bishop and theologian, lived during a tumultuous period in the early Church marked by significant theological disputes. He was the Bishop of Alexandria, one of the most influential cities in the ancient world, both politically and spiritually. Alexandria was a center of learning and theological development, and the role of its bishop was one of immense responsibility.

Achillas succeeded St. Peter of Alexandria, also known as St. Peter the Martyr, who had been a staunch defender of orthodox Christian teachings during the persecutions of the Roman Emperor Diocletian. Upon St. Peter's martyrdom, Achillas was chosen to lead the Church in Alexandria, a position that required both spiritual wisdom and unwavering commitment to the truth.

One of the most significant challenges Achillas faced was the emergence of Arius, a priest in Alexandria, whose teachings would eventually give rise to the heresy known as Arianism. Arianism denied the full divinity of Jesus Christ, claiming that He was a created being and not co-eternal with the Father. This doctrine posed a severe threat to the unity and orthodoxy of the Christian faith.

Initially, Achillas ordained Arius as a priest, likely unaware of the heretical views Arius would soon promote. However, once Arius began to publicly preach these unorthodox ideas, Achillas quickly recognized the danger they posed to the Church's teaching on the nature of Christ. Achillas took decisive steps to counter the spread of Arianism, seeking to defend the true faith as handed down by the Apostles.

Achillas faced opposition not only from Arius but also from another heretical group known as the Meletians. The Meletians, led by Bishop Meletius of Lycopolis, were involved in a schism that further complicated the religious landscape in Alexandria. Despite these challenges, Achillas remained steadfast in his commitment to orthodoxy.

In an effort to preserve the purity of Christian doctrine, a local council was convened in Alexandria, which condemned the teachings of Arius. This condemnation forced Arius to flee to Palestine, where he continued to spread his heretical views. Unfortunately, Achillas did not live to see the full resolution of the Arian controversy, as he passed away shortly after these events. His successor, St. Alexander of Alexandria, would continue the fight against Arianism, leading to its eventual condemnation at the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD.

St. Achillas is remembered for his courage and dedication to the faith during a critical time in Church history. His efforts laid the groundwork for the eventual triumph of orthodox Christianity over the Arian heresy, ensuring that the true nature of Christ would be upheld by the Church for generations to come.