Hilary of Poitiers (Latin: Hilarius; c. 310 – c. 367)was Bishop of Poitiers and a Doctor of the Church. He was sometimes referred to as the “Hammer of the Arians” (Malleus Arianorum) and the “Athanasius of the West.” His name comes from the Latin word for happy or cheerful. In addition to his important work as a bishop, Hilary was married and the father of Abra of Poitiers, a nun and saint who became known for her charity. His optional memorial in the General Roman Calendar is 13 January.
Hillary, a non-Christian, accidentally read the Holy Scriptures. The verses of Scripture showed him the true God. He immediately converted to Christianity. He soon converted his wife and children to Christianity. He was a middle-aged man when he converted.
Shortly afterward, Hillary has ordained a priest. In 353 he has ordained bishop of his homeland. It was a time when Aryan heresy flourished. They also had the support of the then emperor. The saint participated in many local synods to prevent their infiltration, which was outnumbered. Because of their strong opposition to the Aryan heretics, they charged the saint before the emperor and were deported to Pryzia.
It was during this time that the saint wrote a great book on the Holy Trinity. The saint traveled to Constantinople, Italy, and Illyria to preach against the heretics and to emphasize the Catholic faith.
The saint, who began every action with the praise of God, lived by meditating and praying day and night on divine things. He died in 363.