Anthimus (3)

Anthimus bishop of Tyana, joined with Basil, A.D. 372, in subscribing a circular letter addressed by the Oriental bishops to those of Italy and Gaul; but immediately after discussions broke out between them. On two several occasions we find Anthimus in a position of antagonism to Basil,

(a.) When the province of Cappadocia was divided and Tyana became the capital of the second division, Anthimus insisted that the ecclesiastical arrangements should follow the civil, and claimed metropolitan rights over several of Basil's suffragans.

(b.) A certain Faustus had applied to Basil to consecrate him to an Armenian see; but, as he did not produce the proper authority, the consecration was deferred. He immediately applied to Anthimus, who at once complied with his request, thus setting canonical rules at defiance. A reconciliation seems to have been effected, as, we find Basil speaking of Anthimus in friendly terms. Except in connection with Basil and Gregory, nothing is known of this prelate.