Pope Theodosius I of Alexandria

Pope Theodosius I of Alexandria, born in the year four hundred fifty, served as a significant figure in the Eastern Orthodox Church. He was the last Patriarch of Alexandria to be recognized by both the Coptic Orthodox Christians and the Chalcedonian Melchites, marking a pivotal moment in the history of Christianity in the region.

As the successor to Timothy III (IV), Theodosius was ordained a universal bishop in five hundred forty-three or four AD by Mor Theodosius, following the requests of the Arab king Al-Harith ibn Jabalah al-Ghassani and the efforts of Empress Theodora. Initially, he gained recognition from Emperor Justinian I and the Eastern Orthodox Church. However, his adherence to Miaphysite theology led to his rejection by the Eastern Orthodox Church of Alexandria, resulting in his exile by the Emperor in five hundred thirty-six.

Despite his exile, Theodosius maintained a following among the Copts, which contributed to the enduring split between the Coptic and Melchite lineages. For the last twenty-eight years of his life, he lived imprisoned in Upper Egypt, where he continued to be a symbol of faith for his followers.

Upon his death, the Coptic Church elected Peter IV as his successor, ensuring the continuation of his legacy. Theodosius is commemorated in the Coptic Synaxarion on the twenty-eighth day of Ba'unah, which corresponds to June fifth, the anniversary of his passing.