Saint Bartholomew, Apostle

Feast Day: August 24

Patronage: He is the patron saint of butchers, leatherworkers, and bookbinders.

Symbolism: Saint Bartholomew is often depicted with a knife, which is a reference to the manner of his martyrdom. He is also sometimes shown holding his own skin, as he was believed to have been flayed alive.

Life and Apostleship:

Saint Bartholomew, also known as Nathanael in the Gospel of John, was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ. His name, Bartholomew, is a patronymic, meaning "son of Tolmai" or "son of Talmai." Little is known about his early life, but it is believed he was born in Cana of Galilee.

Bartholomew first appears in the New Testament when Philip brings him to Jesus, who praises Bartholomew as "an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile" (John 1:47). After Jesus’ Ascension, Bartholomew is said to have preached the Gospel in several regions, including India, Mesopotamia, Parthia, and Armenia.

Important Incident: Martyrdom in Armenia:

The most significant and widely known event associated with Saint Bartholomew is his martyrdom in Armenia. According to tradition, Bartholomew converted the king of Armenia, Polymius, to Christianity. This act enraged the king's brother, who ordered Bartholomew to be flayed alive and then beheaded. The manner of his death has led to him being venerated as a martyr and is often highlighted in Christian art, where he is depicted holding his own skin or with a knife, symbolizing his suffering.

The spread of Christianity in Armenia and his role in converting the Armenian king greatly contributed to his veneration as a saint. Armenia later became the first nation to adopt Christianity as its state religion, and Saint Bartholomew is honored as one of the key figures in the Christianization of the region.

This story of his unwavering faith and his gruesome martyrdom has made Saint Bartholomew a symbol of courage and devotion in the face of extreme suffering. His feast day, celebrated on August 24, is an occasion for Christians to remember his sacrifice and commitment to spreading the Gospel.