St. Mark and Friends

St. Mark’s legacy shaped St. Athanasius, the 20th patriarch of Alexandria (328–373 AD), who defended Christ’s truth against false teachings, per The History of the Patriarchs of Alexandria. Tradition says Athanasius studied at the catechetical school Mark founded, learning to proclaim Christ as fully God and man, celebrated on 7 Paremhotep. During hard times in five exiles, some say he prayed at Baucalis, where Mark’s relics rested, seeking prayers through Christ to stay strong, per The Coptic Encyclopedia.

Copts believe Mark’s prayers through Christ helped Athanasius write On the Incarnation, keeping the Church’s teachings pure. Ethiopian Christians honor Athanasius as a son of Mark’s Church, his courage rooted in Alexandria’s faith, per The Churches of Ethiopia. After exile, tradition says Athanasius rebuilt Mark’s catechetical school and spread Christ’s truth to Ethiopia through Frumentius. For kids, taught in Sunday school, Mark is a heavenly coach, guiding Athanasius and us to stand firm for Christ.