Definition: Titus Flavius Clemens, known as Clement of Alexandria (c. 150-c. 215), wrote about Christian doctrine. His most important theological writings are Protrepticus, Paedagogus and the unfinished Stromateis. He was the head of the Catechetical School of Alexandria from 199-202. Influenced by Plato and other Greek philosophers, Clement felt that knowledge was a necessary adjunct to faith. Clement may have influenced Origen in Alexandria, who succeeded him at the Catechetical school.
His birth date and place, as well as the date of his death are unknown. He may have been born at Athens. Clement was venerated as a saint of the Roman Catholic Church until the 17th century.
Examples: Clement supported Gnosticism and tried to incorporate pagan elements in Christianity.
