St. Matthew the Apostle – Life, Feast Day, and Legacy

ST. MATHEW THE APOSTLE

St. Matthew, one of the twelve apostles, was a tax collector before following Jesus. He authored the first Gospel, emphasizing Christ as the Messiah. His transformation from a public sinner to a holy evangelist inspires many. He is the patron saint of accountants and bankers.

St. Matthew the Apostle, also known as Levi, was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus Christ. Before his calling, Matthew worked as a tax collector in Capernaum, a profession widely disliked by the Jews due to its association with Roman oppression and corruption. Despite this, Jesus approached Matthew directly, saying, “Follow me,” and without hesitation, Matthew left everything behind to become a disciple. This radical shift from a life of wealth and suspicion to one of spiritual devotion exemplifies the power of divine grace and the transformation that faith can bring.

Matthew is traditionally regarded as the author of the Gospel according to Matthew, which was composed to present Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. His Gospel is notable for its detailed account of Jesus’ teachings, including the Sermon on the Mount, the Beatitudes, and the Lord’s Prayer. These teachings continue to be foundational in Christian ethics and spirituality.

Little is known about his later life, but early Christian tradition holds that Matthew preached the Gospel in various regions, including Ethiopia and Persia. He faced martyrdom for his faith, likely killed while celebrating Mass. Accounts vary, with some stating he was stabbed to death or burned, though none are definitively proven.

St. Matthew is venerated in both the Western and Eastern Christian traditions. His relics are believed to rest in Salerno, Italy, where a magnificent cathedral dedicated to him was built. The Church honors his feast day on September 21st. Over the centuries, he has been considered the patron saint of tax collectors, bankers, accountants, and civil servants, reflecting his former profession and his spiritual legacy.

Artists often depict St. Matthew with a winged man or angel, one of the four living creatures in the Book of Revelation, symbolizing his role as an evangelist. His transformation and Gospel writings have inspired countless believers to trust in redemption and to proclaim the message of Christ with courage and clarity.

Feast Day

21-9-

Birth Date

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Died Date

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Canonised Date

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Salerno, Italy

"Saint Matthew, apostle and evangelist, Pray for us and intercede before the Lord, That we may be inspired by your faith and dedication. Guide us to follow Christ's teachings, And help us to spread His word with love and humility. Amen."
ST. MATHEW THE APOSTLE

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ST. MATHEW THE APOSTLE

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Credits & Acknowledgments

Anudina Visudhar (Malayalam) – Life of Saints for Everyday
by Msgr. Thomas Moothedan, M.A., D.D.
Saint Companions for Each Day
by A. J. M. Mausolfe & J. K. Mausolfe
US Catholic (Faith in Real Life) – Informational articles
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