Saint of the Day: St. Bartholomew | August 24
By SIDTP SoCom
Published on August 24, 2024
St. Bartholomew, also known as Nathaniel, is one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and is remembered for his faith and dedication. His story is significant in the history of the early Church, and he continues to inspire Christians today.
St. Bartholomew is traditionally identified with Nathaniel, who is mentioned in the Gospel of John. According to the Bible, Nathaniel was a friend of Philip, another apostle, who brought him to Jesus. When Jesus saw Nathaniel approaching, He declared, “Here is a true Israelite in whom there is no deceit” (John 1:47). Nathaniel, astonished by this statement, asked how Jesus knew him. Jesus responded by saying He had seen Nathaniel under the fig tree before Philip called him. This revelation led Nathaniel to believe in Jesus as the Son of God and the King of Israel.
Bartholomew is listed among the twelve apostles in the New Testament, where he is recognized for his role in spreading Jesus’ teachings and helping establish the early Christian Church. His name, Bartholomew, means “son of Tolmai,” and in many lists of the apostles, he is paired with Philip, highlighting their close relationship.
Although the Bible does not provide many details about Bartholomew’s later life, Christian tradition holds that he traveled widely to preach the Gospel. According to various sources, he is believed to have spread Christianity in regions such as Armenia, India, and Ethiopia. Some traditions also suggest that he faced persecution and martyrdom for his faith.
St. Bartholomew is often depicted in art with a knife, symbolizing his martyrdom, which, according to tradition, was by being flayed alive. His feast day is celebrated on August 24, and he is venerated as a saint by the Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican Churches.
The life of St. Bartholomew exemplifies a deep commitment to following Christ and spreading His message despite great hardships. His story encourages believers to live with integrity and dedication, reflecting his example of faithfulness and courage.
Sources:
1. “St. Bartholomew” entry from the Catholic Encyclopedia:
– The Catholic Encyclopedia. (n.d.). St. Bartholomew. In The Catholic Encyclopedia. Retrieved August 20, 2024, from [https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02335a.htm](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/02335a.htm).
2. “Saint Bartholomew: The Apostle” by Michael Walsh:
– Walsh, M. (2005). Saint Bartholomew: The Apostle. [Publisher information if available].
3. Official Vatican resources:
– Vatican. (n.d.). St. Bartholomew. Retrieved from [https://www.vatican.va/content/vatican/en/saints/saint-bartholomew.html](https://www.vatican.va/content/vatican/en/saints/saint-bartholomew.html).
