Every year, on December 27th, Christians celebrate the feast of Saint John the Evangelist, one of Jesus Christ's closest apostles. This day is an important moment for the Catholic faith as it allows believers to reflect on his life, his writings, and his spiritual legacy. Saint John is a central figure in the New Testament, notably known for writing the Gospel according to John, the Apocalypse, and three epistles. Through this article, let's explore the significance of this feast, the meaning of his attributes, his role in spreading Christian teachings, and the prayer dedicated to Saint John.
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Who is Saint John the Evangelist?
Saint John the Evangelist is one of Jesus Christ's most emblematic apostles, often called "the disciple whom Jesus loved." He was part of the inner circle of three apostles close to Jesus, alongside Peter and James. John was the brother of James the Greater, and both were sons of Zebedee, a fisherman from Galilee. He is traditionally recognized as the author of the Gospel according to John, which stands apart from the other three Gospels by its emphasis on the divinity of Jesus. He also wrote three epistles and the book of Revelation, a prophetic text about the end times.
What is the role of Saint John?
Saint John played a central role in transmitting the Christian message. He was a witness to many key events in the life of Jesus, including the Transfiguration, the Passion, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection. As an evangelist, he left an essential testimony of the life of Christ, a testimony that emphasizes his divine and immeasurable love for humanity. After the Resurrection, he continued to preach the Gospel, primarily in Asia Minor, particularly in Ephesus, where he established a thriving Christian community.
Why invoke Saint John?
Saint John is often invoked for his spiritual wisdom and his intimate connection with Jesus. Because of his direct witness to the most significant events in the life of Christ, he is considered a powerful intercessor with God. Christians invoke Saint John to obtain special graces, such as a deeper understanding of the Gospel and strength to live according to the teachings of Christ. His ability to express divine love through his writings makes him a model for those seeking to live a vibrant faith.
What does Saint John symbolize and what are his attributes?
Saint John is often depicted with an eagle, symbolizing his elevated vision of God and the divinity of Jesus. The eagle is an attribute linked to the Gospel according to John, which begins with a theological reflection on the incarnate Word. In religious art, Saint John is also often shown with a chalice, referring to the tradition that he survived an attempt at poisoning thanks to divine intervention. This image also highlights his role as a privileged witness to sacred events.
The Mission of Saint John
Jesus named the brothers John and James "the sons of thunder" because of their passionate temperaments. These two apostles played a major role in building the first Christian community in Jerusalem. Very close to Peter, John is often considered one of the pillars of the early Church. Together, Peter and he were arrested after preaching in the synagogue. Judged by the Sanhedrin, they were eventually released and embarked on a mission in Samaria.
After these events, John went to Ephesus, where he established a Christian community that would become one of the centers of early Christianity. Many legendary tales accompany his travels, often seen as signs of his holiness and the divine protection that accompanied him.
One legend tells that during a sea voyage, John commanded that the sea water become drinkable before an impending shipwreck. Though he was declared drowned, he miraculously reappeared two weeks later, safe and sound, on a shore. In Ephesus, he escaped an attempted stoning: the stones thrown at him bounced off without hitting him. Another story recounts that a heavenly fire, triggered by John, killed more than two people, but they were resurrected by his prayers and converted to the Christian faith.
After several years of missions and preaching, John was exiled to the island of Patmos by the Roman Emperor Domitian. It was on this isolated island that Saint John wrote most of his writings, including the book of Revelation, a foundational text in Christian theology that announces the end times and Christ's ultimate victory.
Prayer for Saint John the Evangelist
O Saint John the Evangelist, you who were the beloved disciple of Christ, you who contemplated and received the living word of the incarnate Word, grant us the grace to follow your example of deep faith and to live according to the love you proclaimed. Help us to understand the depth of the Gospel and to live in the truth and light of Jesus.
Through your intercession, pray for us that we remain faithful to the call of Christ and that we may, in turn, bear witness to His love. Saint John, intercessor of the Church, guide us on the path to holiness and make our lives reflect God's love and light.
Amen.
FAQ - Saint John the Evangelist
When is Saint John’s Feast Day?
Saint John the Evangelist's feast day is celebrated annually on December 27th.
Which saint is celebrated on December 27th?
On December 27th, we celebrate Saint John the Evangelist, one of Jesus Christ's apostles.
Why invoke Saint John?
Saint John is invoked for his wisdom, divine love, and ability to express the truth. Believers call on him for spiritual graces and a deeper understanding of the Gospel.
Who wrote the Apocalypse?
The Apocalypse was written by Saint John the Evangelist, also the author of the Gospel according to John and three epistles.
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