Saint of the Month – Saint Matthew the Apostle

St. Matthew, also known as Levi, was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and the traditional author of the first Gospel in the New Testament.

He was born in Galilee and worked as a tax collector in Capernaum before his calling. In first-century Palestine, tax collectors were often despised by their fellow Jews because they worked for the occupying Roman authorities and were suspected of dishonesty. Yet, Jesus saw beyond Matthew’s profession and recognized his openness of heart.

When Jesus passed by Matthew’s tax booth and said, “Follow me,” Matthew immediately rose, left his work, and became a disciple.

Matthew held a banquet in his house, where Jesus dined with tax collectors and sinners. This event revealed Christ’s mission of mercy and challenged the religious leaders of the time, showing that God’s kingdom was open to all who repented and believed. Matthew became a devoted follower, witnessing Jesus’ teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection.

His Gospel Message

The Gospel of Matthew, attributed to him, emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and presents Him as the new Moses, the teacher of the New Law. Written primarily for a Jewish audience, it includes the Sermon on the Mount, the Beatitudes, and the Great Commission. Through his Gospel, Matthew sought to show that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah and Savior.

Tradition holds that, after Pentecost, Matthew preached the Gospel in various regions, possibly including Judea, Ethiopia, Persia, or Parthia. Accounts of his martyrdom vary, but most traditions agree that he laid down his life for the faith, sealing his testimony with blood.

St. Matthew is honored as a saint and evangelist. His feast day is celebrated on September 21 in the Western Church. He is often depicted with a winged man or angel, symbolizing his Gospel’s focus on Christ’s humanity and genealogy.

As the patron saint of bankers, accountants, and tax collectors, Matthew’s story reminds the faithful that no past sin or occupation is beyond the reach of God’s mercy. His life stands as a witness to transformation, discipleship, and the power of the Gospel to change hearts.

St. Matthew’s feast day is September 21st.

St. Matthew, pray for us!

Download the free Saint of the Month poster designed by Emily Prause using the button below. You can pin it to your classroom wall or place it on your refrigerator to help your children learn more about Saint Matthew.

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