St. Andrew
| Feast Day | November 30 |
|---|---|
| Patronage |
|
| Place of Birth | Bethsaida, a fishing village on the Sea of Galilee (modern-day Israel) |
| Place of Death | Patras, Achaea (modern-day Greece) |
| Canonization Date | N/A |
Biography
St. Andrew, the brother of St. Peter, was one of the first disciples called by Jesus. Originally a fisherman, he and his brother were working on the Sea of Galilee when they received the call from Jesus to “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). Andrew immediately left his work and his family to follow Jesus, becoming one of the Twelve Apostles.
Andrew is often referred to as the “First-Called” because he was the first disciple to be called by Jesus. After Jesus’ resurrection, Andrew spread the message of Christianity across many regions. He is believed to have preached in places such as Byzantium (modern-day Istanbul), Thrace, and Scythia, which includes areas of modern-day Greece, Turkey, and parts of Eastern Europe.
St. Andrew is most notably known for his martyrdom in the city of Patras. According to tradition, he was crucified on an X-shaped cross, which is now known as the Saltire Cross or the St. Andrew’s Cross. His steadfast faith during his execution made him a symbol of Christian devotion and courage.
St. Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, Russia, Greece, and Romania, and his legacy is celebrated in various parts of the Christian world. He is also known for being the patron saint of fishermen, due to his original profession.
Miracles & Important Events
- First Called: St. Andrew’s most significant event is his call to discipleship. He was the first to follow Jesus when Jesus called him and his brother Peter to leave their fishing business and become fishers of men.
- Evangelization and Missionary Work: After the resurrection of Christ, Andrew traveled extensively, spreading the message of Christianity. He is believed to have preached in Greece, Asia Minor, and as far as what is now Russia. His missionary journey is often linked to his evangelization in the city of Byzantium (modern-day Istanbul), which later became an important center of Christianity and the capital of the Byzantine Empire.
- Martyrdom in Patras: St. Andrew was martyred in Patras, Greece, during the reign of the Roman Emperor Nero. He was crucified on an X-shaped cross, which became known as the “St. Andrew’s Cross.” Tradition holds that Andrew suffered for two days on the cross, continuing to preach to those around him until he passed away.
Associated Symbols
- The X-shaped cross (Saltire Cross): This is the cross on which St. Andrew was martyred, and it has become a symbol of both his martyrdom and his patronage of various countries, such as Scotland.
- A fisherman’s net: Reflecting his life as a fisherman and his calling by Jesus to be a “fisher of men.”
- A book or scroll: Representing his preaching and missionary work.
- Two fish: Symbolizing his profession and the miracle of the loaves and fishes.
- A staff: As a missionary and apostle, Andrew is often depicted holding a staff.
Quotes & Writings
- “He first found his brother Simon and said to him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (which means Christ). He brought him to Jesus.” — This quote shows St. Andrew’s immediate response to Jesus’ call. As the first to follow, Andrew’s next action was to bring his brother Peter to Christ, demonstrating his commitment to spreading the good news.
- “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” — This is the call of Jesus to Andrew and his brother Peter. It marks the beginning of Andrew’s discipleship and his lifelong mission to spread the Gospel.
- “I have longed to see you, O Christians, and I have lived to see you, but now that I am on the cross, I am able to see you face to face. I have fought the good fight, I have kept the faith.” — These are words attributed to St. Andrew as he was being crucified. They reflect his unwavering faith and his dedication to the mission of Christ, even in his final moments.