St. Matthew
| Feast Day | September 21 |
|---|---|
| Patronage |
|
| Place of Birth | Galilee, Israel |
| Place of Death | Traditionally Ethiopia or Persia (Exact location unknown) |
| Canonization Date | N/A |
Biography
Saint Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector before becoming one of Jesus’ Twelve Apostles. His calling is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 9:9), where Jesus saw him at his tax booth and said, “Follow me,” and Matthew immediately left everything behind.
As an apostle, he witnessed Jesus’ miracles, teachings, and resurrection. He is traditionally credited with writing the Gospel of Matthew, which presents Jesus as the Messiah and fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy.
After Jesus’ ascension, Matthew is believed to have preached the Gospel in places like Ethiopia, Persia, and Parthia, where he was eventually martyred. Accounts of his death vary, but tradition says he was either stabbed, burned, or beheaded for his faith.
Miracles & Important Events
- The Call of Matthew: Leaving his tax collector’s post to follow Jesus (Matthew 9:9).
- Writing the Gospel of Matthew: The first Gospel in the New Testament, focusing on Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy.
- Miracles in Ethiopia: Tradition says he converted a king’s family and performed healings before being martyred.
Associated Symbols
- Winged Man or Angel – Representing his Gospel’s focus on Christ’s humanity.
- Book or Scroll – Symbolizing the Gospel he wrote.
- Money Bags or Coins – Representing his past as a tax collector.
- Sword, Spear, or Halberd – Depicting his martyrdom.
Quotes & Writings
- “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3) – From the Beatitudes.
- “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19) – The Great Commission.
- “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” (Matthew 18:20)