Saint Bartholomew

St Bartholomew History

The Observance of Saint Bartholomew is a Christian tradition that honors the life and martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. Recognized in both the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches, this feast day commemorates his courageous commitment to spreading the Christian faith, eventually leading to his martyrdom by Flaying and beheading. Through the celebration of mass, prayer, and reflection, believers honor his dedication to Jesus and the Christian faith and continue to uphold the values that Saint Bartholomew embodied.

Saint Bartholomew, also known as Nathaniel, has an uncertain history, with some sources even suggesting that Bartholomew and Nathaniel are two distinct individuals. Despite these uncertainties, Saint Bartholomew is thought to have been born in Cana, and he later became one of the first followers of Jesus. His missionary travels are believed to have taken him to various regions, including India, Ethiopia, Mesopotamia, and Armenia, where he is said to have met his tragic end.

In America, the Observance of Saint Bartholomew is primarily recognized through local church celebrations and masses, which may include special readings, prayers, and hymns dedicated to the saint. Individual believers may choose to celebrate Saint Bartholomew by privately reflecting on his life and teachings, seeking his intercession or adopting him as a personal patron saint. The observance of Saint Bartholomew takes place annually on August 24th.

Saint Bartholomew facts

• Bartholomew is simply just listed by name in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke as well as in Acts (Mt.10:2, Mark 3:14, Luke 6:12, Acts 1:13, 26). He is not mentioned in the Gospel of John, but some theologians believe that he is referred to by the name Nathaniel. Most of the information the church has about Bartholomew/Nathaniel is based on early sermons and writings.
• Bartholomew is thought to have been martyred in Armenia. His skin was flayed from his body while he was still alive.
• In the Gospel of John, Bartholomew (known as Nathaniel) is identified as being from Galilee. He was one of Jesus' first disciples.
• St. Bartholomew is the patron saint of Armenia because early church writers placed him there spreading the gospel.
• Bartholomew is celebrated in the Orthodox Church on June 30. In the Roman Catholic tradition, his feast day is August 24 (as is shown in WinCalendar).

In the News and Trending in the US for Saint Bartholomew

Top things to do in the US for St Bartholomew

• Travel to Rome and visit St Bartholomew's relics. They are thought to be entombed in the basilica, St Bartholomew on the Island (in Rome, Italy).
• Visit the Sistine Chapel at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome or look at its images online. St. Bartholomew appears in Michelangelo's "The Last Judgment" with his skin flayed.
• Gingerbread is a food associated with the St Bartholomew. Bake some gingerbread men on his feast day.
• Read St. Peter's Sisters: Women Who Were Jesus' Early Companions By Garry Wills.