The Death of Athanasius and the Election of Peter

At Alexandria, Athanasius the victorious, after all his struggles, each one rewarded with a crown, was released from his labors and passed away to the life that knows no toil. Then Peter, a truly excellent man, received the see. His blessed predecessor had chosen him first, every vote of the clergy and of the men of rank and office agreed, and the whole people vied to show their delight with their cheers. He had shared the heavy labors of Athanasius. At home and abroad he had always been at his side, and had gone through many dangers with him. That is why the bishops of the region hurried to meet. Those who lived in the schools of the ascetic life left them and joined the gathering, and all together begged that Peter be chosen to succeed Athanasius on the patriarchal throne. [a]