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A LITTLE after this, Alexander bishop of Alexandria having
died, Athanasius was set over that church. Rufinus relates, that
this [Athana-sius] when quite a boy, played with others of his own
age at a sacred game: this was an imitation of the priesthood and the
order of consecrated persons. In this game therefore Athanasius was
allotted the episcopal chair, and each of the other lads personated
either a presbyter or a deacon. The children engaged in this sport on
the day in which the memory of the martyr and bishop Peter was
celebrated. Now at that time Alexander bishop of Alexandria
happening to pass by, observed the play in which they were engaged,
and having sent for the children, enquired from them the part each had
been assigned in the game, conceiving that something might be portended
by that which had been done. He then gave directions that the children
should be taken to the church, and instructed in learning, but
especially Athanasius; and having afterwards ordained him deacon on
his becoming of adult age, he brought him to Nicaea to assist him in
the disputations there when the Synod was convened. This account of
Athanasius Rufinus has given in his own writings; nor is it
improbable that it took place, for many transactions of this kind have
often occurred. Concerning this matter it will suffice to have said
the above.
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