St. Matthew
Apostle, Evangelist, Tax Collector
Feast Day: September 21
Biography
St. Matthew (also called Levi) was a tax collector in Capernaum — a profession despised by his fellow Jews as collaboration with the Roman occupiers. Jesus called him with the simple words 'Follow me,' and Matthew immediately left everything. He then hosted a great banquet for Jesus, inviting his fellow tax collectors and sinners, prompting the Pharisees to complain. Jesus responded with the immortal words: 'I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.' Matthew authored the first Gospel, written particularly for a Jewish audience, emphasizing how Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies. Tradition holds he preached in Ethiopia and Persia, where he was martyred.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Matthew, you left everything to follow Christ at a single word. Grant me the grace to respond to God's call with the same immediacy and generosity. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Matthew, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Matthew, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.