The feast of St. Matthew is celebrated every year on September 21. St Matthew is an apostle of Jesus and one of the four evangelists, known for his devotion to spreading the word of God and his understanding of Jesus as the Messiah. He is often invoked for guidance for those seeking to understand the Bible and for spiritual guidance. St Matthew, guide for the understanding of the Bible, pray for us that we may be instruments of God's word.
Who is Saint Matthew?
His Story
Saint Matthew is one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He was born in Bethsaida in Galilee and was originally a tax collector for the Roman government. After meeting Jesus, Matthew left his former life to follow Jesus and share his message. He is considered the author of the fifth book of the Bible, the Gospel of Matthew. St Matthew is often depicted writing his gospel or with a sword, symbolising his courageous decision to leave his previous life to serve Jesus.
His significance
St Matthew is often depicted as a publican, i.e. a tax collector, before he became a disciple of Jesus. He is revered for his faith and dedication to Jesus and for his role in spreading the message of Christ.
Celebration of the Feast of Saint Matthew
Religious rituals
Religious rituals may vary according to religious tradition, but may include masses, processions, prayers and offerings. In some churches it is customary to celebrate St Matthew by reading passages from the Gospel of St Matthew, which was written by him, and meditating on the teachings of Jesus. The feast of St Matthew is a time of gratitude and recognition for the contribution of St Matthew to the spread of the Gospel and the teaching of Jesus.
Prayer to Saint Matthew
O Saint Matthew, apostle of Jesus Christ,
We pray to you today to intercede for us.
Your love for God led you to abandon your former life and follow Jesus, to proclaim the Good News to the nations.
Help us to be courageous witnesses to the truth of the Gospel, and to share our faith with those around us.
Give us the strength to do good deeds and to live our lives according to the teachings of Jesus.
We also ask for your protection and support, so that we can overcome the challenges and difficulties we face on our journey.
Thank you for guiding and inspiring us, so that we can be instruments of peace and justice in this world.
We pray to you through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
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