Frumentius' Heavenly Friends

St. Frumentius, known as Abba Salama, and St. Athanasius formed a holy partnership in the 330s, building Ethiopia’s faith together. Athanasius, the great Coptic leader and 20th Pope of Alexandria, defended Christ’s truth against false teachings. In the early 330s, Frumentius sailed from Aksum to Alexandria, asking Athanasius to appoint a bishop for Ethiopia. Recognizing his zeal, Athanasius consecrated Frumentius as bishop, sending him back to Aksum with prayers and blessings. Their partnership began Ethiopia’s Christian story, closely tied to the Coptic Church.

Their bond endured. In the 350s, when opponents sought to remove Frumentius, Athanasius supported him, writing letters to refute them. One tale says Frumentius sought Athanasius’ prayers during this challenge, and God protected him from opponents. For Coptic children, this is their Pope and missionary uniting; for Ethiopian children, it’s Abba Salama standing firm with a holy ally. They were like brothers, serving God with great zeal.

Being Athanasius’ ally shows Abba Salama’s spirit of collaboration. He relied on a saint who stood firm in faith. Their partnership built a bridge from Alexandria to Aksum, uniting the faithful today. Through his prayers, Abba Salama remains a beloved saint, guiding us to Christ.