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Alexander’s greatest challenge was Arius himself. Alexander’s position had been compromised by the actions of his predecessor, Achillas, who had not only allowed Arius to return to the church, but had also assigned him the oldest church in Alexandria. In this position Achillas gave Arius the ability to exert great influence on the Christian community in Alexandria. Arius drew increasing support in Alexandria, to the point that Alexander called local two meetings of his priests and deacons to limit Arius’ actions. In neither meeting were firm conclusions reach that could stem the spread of Arius’ beliefs. In 320, Alexander called a [[synod]] of the church in Alexandria that agreed on a condemnation of Arius.
Not withstanding this condemnation, Arius continued to spread his belief into Mareotis and Libya. In 321, Alexander convened a council of the Alexandria diocese that included over one hundred participants. At the council Arius argued his position that the Son was not co-eternal with the Father and that the Son was not similar to the Father in substance. The last statement was received in horror and the assembled council went on to place Arius under [[anathema ]] until he recanted his positions.
Arius forthwith left for Palestine where he settled with friends and continued to spread his heresy. Alexander then wrote a confession of faith that he sent to all the bishops in Christendom asking them to endorse his position. The dispute over Arianism continued as a serious problem and soon brought the Emperor Constantine I into the fray. Constantine wrote to Alexander and Arius requesting they end their dispute. Alexander remained adamant about his position and at another general council of his diocese the excommunication of Arius was reaffirmed. Arius then formally complained to Constantine about his treatment by Alexander. Constantine directed Arius to plead his case before a general council of the church, to be convened at [[Nicea]] in Asia Minor on [[June 14]], 325.
