4th century
Feast: August 2
A bishop who defended orthodox teaching against Arianism and suffered exile for the faith.
Eusebius of Vercelli (283-371) was the first bishop of Vercelli in northern Italy and a staunch defender of Nicene orthodoxy against Arianism. At the Council of Milan (355), he refused to condemn St. Athanasius and was exiled by Emperor Constantius II. He spent six years in exile in Palestine, Cappadocia, and Egypt, suffering harsh treatment. After Emperor Julian allowed his return, he worked to restore orthodox bishops and heal divisions caused by Arianism. His steadfastness preserved Catholic teaching.