Socrates Scholasticus informs us that Atticus came from Sivas (ancient Sebastea in the province of Armenia Prima in the civil diocese of Pontus) on the Kızılırmak (also called Halys) River. He had been ascetical from a young age, and Socrates Scholasticus remarks on his learning and prudence (Socr. Hist. eccl. 6.20). As a bishop, Atticus was known for effective pastoral leadership (flourishing churches, a balanced treat…