Anthony was born into a wealthy Christian family in Upper Egypt about 251. Both his parents died while he was a teenager and Anthony gave away his inheritance and became a hermit. After years of solitude, he emerged to gather the ascetics who had followed him into a 'community.' This was the beginning of Christian monasticism.

In 311, Anthony went to Alexandria to encourage the Christians there who were being persecuted. In 355, he returned to Alexandria to help his close friend Bishop Athanasius in the struggle against Arianism. Anthony died on January 17, 356, well-known for his holiness, wisdom and asceticism.©2011 Living with Christ, Novalis - Bayard Press Canada Inc., http://www.livingwithchrist.ca/. Reprinted with permission.