St. Matthew
Feast Day: September 21
“Follow me.” – Jesus to Matthew (Matthew 9:9)
St. Matthew, one of the twelve apostles and the author of the first Gospel, is honored for his courageous response to Christ’s call and his witness to the saving power of God’s mercy. His feast day, celebrated on September 21, commemorates his role as an evangelist and disciple of Jesus.
Called from a Life of Sin to Follow Christ
Matthew was a tax collector in Capernaum, a profession widely despised by the Jewish people because tax collectors were often seen as collaborators with the Roman authorities and associated with greed and dishonesty.
Yet when Jesus passed by and said, “Follow me,” Matthew immediately left everything behind—his booth, his income, and his former way of life—to become a disciple. His conversion is a powerful testimony to the mercy of Christ and the possibility of transformation for anyone, no matter their past.
A Witness to God’s Mercy
After his conversion, Matthew hosted a banquet where Jesus sat and dined with tax collectors and sinners, demonstrating that He came to call not the righteous but sinners to repentance. Matthew’s own life became a testament to that truth.
His Gospel, written primarily for a Jewish audience, emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and highlights Christ’s role as the promised Messiah and King. The Gospel of Matthew contains the Sermon on the Mount, the Beatitudes, and the commissioning of the apostles to evangelize all nations.
Missionary and Martyr
After the resurrection of Christ, tradition holds that Matthew preached the Gospel in Ethiopia, Persia, and other regions, bringing the Good News to those who had never heard it. Like many of the apostles, he ultimately died a martyr, giving his life for the message he had embraced.
Patron of Accountants and Conversion
St. Matthew is the patron saint of accountants, bankers, bookkeepers, and tax collectors, as well as all who seek conversion. His life stands as a witness to the power of God’s mercy and the radical transformation that occurs when one responds to Christ’s call.
A Model of Conversion and Discipleship
St. Matthew’s story invites all people to reflect on the ways Christ calls them to leave behind sin and follow Him wholeheartedly. His Gospel continues to teach and inspire millions, pointing always to Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises.
St. Matthew, pray for us!
