The ancient theological Library of Alexandria was a prize to the ancient world; the Catechetical School of Alexandria, a cornerstone of Christian thought; the Fathers of Alexandria, its brightest stars. These three presented great contributions not only to Egypt, but throughout the Christian world. Due to several factors, they each diminished in prominence and impact: the Library was burned, the school closed, and the fathers were distanced by linguistic and cultural barriers.
The Christian world today is blessed with abundant libraries, numerous seminaries, and countless teachers. With the establishment of the Saint Athanasius and Saint Cyril Theological Library, we seek to ensure that the three ancient hallmarks of Christianity are recaptured and made accessible to meet today’s theological and pastoral needs, reinvigorating Church life and Tradition. This project attempts such a restoration by acquiring theological books and patristic references and ensuring their availability in modern languages.
The St. Athanasius and St. Cyril Theological Library was opened on July 20th, 2007. The Diocese announced that its purpose is to “establish a library that promotes, encourages, and facilitates the study of the Biblical and Patristic heritage of the great Church Fathers, especially Saint Athanasius and Saint Cyril, in response to the theological, pastoral, educational, and ecumenical challenges confronting the Church today.”
