Saint Simon The Apostle

Biography

Saint Simon the Apostle, also known as Nathanael of Cana, Simon Kananaios, Simon Kananites, Simon the Cananean, Simon the Zealot, and Simon Zealotes, was one of the twelve Apostles chosen by Jesus Christ. His designation as the Cananean or Zealot stems from his fervent commitment to the Jewish law. However, it is important to note that he did not originate from Cana, nor was he a member of the Zealot party. Simon the Zealot, like his fellow Apostles, was a convert to Christianity. He received his training under the tutelage of Saint Peter the Apostle, the renowned leader among the twelve. After the ascension of Jesus, Simon zealously embarked on spreading the teachings of Christ. His missionary work led him to evangelize in various territories such as Egypt and Mesopotamia. Although there are traditions claiming his presence in different locations, his apostolic mission in these regions is well-documented. Eventually, Simon the Apostle met a martyr's death for his unwavering faith. Multiple accounts exist regarding the specific circumstances of his martyrdom. The Abyssinians claim that he was crucified in Samaria, while Lipsius reports that he was sawn in half at Suanir in Persia. Additionally, Moses of Chorene writes that he met his martyrdom in Weriosphora in Iberia. Numerous places venerate him as their patron saint and claim to possess his relics, including Toulouse, France, and Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome, Italy. In depictions and representations of Saint Simon the Apostle, various symbols are associated with him. These symbols include a boat, a cross and a saw, fish, a lance, a man being sawn in two lengthwise, an oar, a saw, and two fish. These symbols represent different aspects of his life, including his occupation as a fisherman before becoming an Apostle and the means of his martyrdom. While Saint Simon the Apostle was not officially canonized by the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, he is recognized as a saint in the pre-congregation era. His feast day is celebrated on different dates among various Christian denominations. In the Roman Church, it is observed on 28th October, while the Coptic Church honors him on 10th May. The Orthodox Church commemorates him on 30th June. Saint Simon the Apostle is regarded as the patron saint of curriers, sawmen, sawyers, tanners, woodcutters, and the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights. Moreover, he is revered in Cartigliano, Italy; Marostica, Italy; Monterchi, Italy; and holds special significance to the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights. In summary, Saint Simon the Apostle was a fervent follower of the Jewish law who became an Apostle and was trained by Saint Peter. He spread the teachings of Jesus in Egypt and Mesopotamia, although other locations also claim his presence. He was martyred for his faith, with different accounts attributing his death to crucifixion, being sawn in half, or martyrdom in Iberia. Saint Simon is widely venerated, depicted with various symbols, and honored as the patron of several professions and places.