Athanasius I

Athanasius I of Naples

Athanasius I served as the bishop of Naples from 850 until his death in 872. He is recognized for his devout life, commitment to the spiritual welfare of his diocese, and his involvement in the political and ecclesiastical affairs of his time. He should not be confused with his nephew, also named Athanasius, who later became Athanasius II.

Life and Ministry

Born around 832, Athanasius was the second son of Sergius I of Naples. He became Bishop of Naples in 849 at the young age of less than twenty, and his brother Gregory concurrently became co-duke. His consecration as bishop took place in Rome, performed by Pope Leo IV. Bishop Athanasius led a life characterized by austerity and prayer, placing particular emphasis on the proper education and training of the clergy within his diocese. His efforts extended to significant charitable and religious works, including the restoration of the monastery of the Most Holy Saviour and the establishment of a monastery dedicated to Sts. Januarius and Agrippinus. He also founded a hospice for pilgrims and instituted a system for ransoming prisoners captured by the Saracens.

Political and Ecclesiastical Influence

Athanasius I was a figure of considerable influence, maintaining close relationships with both the court of the Western Emperor and the Pope. He was a trusted associate, or 'familiaris,' of emperors Lothair I and Louis II, and his connections with the Roman curia led to his appointment as a Papal legate. He participated in significant church gatherings, notably attending the Lateran Council of 863.

Persecution and Exile

The later years of Athanasius's episcopate were marked by conflict. His father, Sergius, had advised his son Gregory to heed Athanasius's counsel, a directive that Gregory followed. However, Gregory's son, Sergius II, did not adhere to this advice. Sergius II persecuted Athanasius, partly due to the bishop's opposition to an alliance with the Aghlabids of Sicily, and also seized the treasures of the cathedral. In 870, Duke Sergius II imprisoned his uncle Caesar, the admiral of the Neapolitan fleet, who also opposed the alliance with the Aghlabids. Caesar died in prison.

Death and Legacy

As a result of the persecution, the bishop was exiled to a small island. He was eventually rescued by ships from Amalfi, sent by Emperor Louis. While en route to Rome, Athanasius died at Veroli in 872. He was initially buried at Monte Cassino, and his relics were later transferred to the Cathedral of Naples. Athanasius I is venerated in the Catholic Church as the co-patron saint of Naples, with his feast day observed on July 15th. A biography, or vita, of Athanasius was composed by John the Deacon in 872.