Saint Matthias the Apostle: Feast Day May 14

Biography

Saint Matthias the Apostle, also known as simply Saint Matthias, is recognized as one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He is famous for being chosen to replace Judas Iscariot after his betrayal and subsequent death. Not much is known about the early life of Saint Matthias. However, according to the Bible, he was an eyewitness to the Resurrection of Jesus. This aspect made him a suitable candidate to become an apostle, as the criteria set by the remaining eleven apostles was to choose someone who had personally witnessed the risen Christ. After Jesus' ascension into heaven, the apostles cast lots to select the new twelfth apostle, and Matthias was chosen. After his selection, Saint Matthias devoted himself to preaching the Gospel, carrying out his ministry for more than thirty years.

He traveled to various regions, including Judea, Cappadocia, Egypt, and Ethiopia, spreading the message of Jesus Christ wherever he went. Saint Matthias is particularly remembered for his emphasis on the need for mortification of the flesh, specifically regarding sensual and irregular desires. He emphasized the importance of self-discipline and self-control in order to achieve spiritual growth and righteousness. Despite his dedication to spreading the Gospel, Saint Matthias faced great persecution for his faith. He eventually met a martyr's death, being stoned to death in Colchis around the year 80 AD. Some of his relics are preserved in the abatical church of Trier, Germany, while others are housed in Saint Mary Major in Rome, Italy. Saint Matthias is venerated as a saint in several Christian denominations, including the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Episcopal, and Lutheran Churches.

He was canonized before the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Throughout history, Saint Matthias has been recognized as the patron saint against alcoholism, smallpox, and for carpenters and tailors. Additionally, he is regarded as the patron saint of the Gary, Indiana diocese and the diocese of Great Falls-Billings, Montana. His intercession is sought by individuals struggling with alcohol addiction, seeking protection from smallpox, and those working in carpentry and tailoring professions. The feast day of Saint Matthias is celebrated on different dates depending on the Christian tradition. It is observed on May 14th in the Roman Catholic and Anglican Communion, on August 9th in the Eastern Orthodox Church, and on February 24th in the Episcopal, Lutheran, and former Roman Catholic calendars. Saint Matthias the Apostle continues to be revered as an exemplar of faith, dedication, and martyrdom. His life serves as an inspiration for Christians to boldly proclaim the Gospel, endure trials and persecution, and strive for spiritual growth and self-discipline in their journey with Christ.

Detail of A Stained Glass Window of Saint Matthias The Apostle 19Th Century By F X Zettler Munich Germany Parish Church of Saint Alban GutenzellHürbel Biberach Germany Photographed In January 2015 By Andreas Praefcke
Wikimedia Commons

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All the saints and blesseds of May 14

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