 | St. Matthew (Celebrated September 21 in the West and November 16 in the East)
His name comes from the Hebrew Mattihah, which means "Gift of God". Known as Levi to Mark and Luke, Matthew worked as a tax collector for the Romans and therefore, was disliked by the people. He was called by Jesus as he himself states in his writings. He wrote the Book of Matthew which centers in the figure of Christ and the behavior one should have if he wanted to be a disciple. It is believed that he was martyred in Ethiopia, executed near an altar for opposing the marriage of the daughter of the King of Egypt.
He is usually represented in art writing the Gospel, inspired by an angel. As an apostle his attributes are a book, pen and a halberd, symbol of his martyrdom. He is patron saint of Bankers and Bank employees, accountants, tax collectors and other financial related jobs. |