Apostle
Evangelist Luke
Apostle and Evangelist Luke
New Calendar October 18 Old Calendar October 31
Why they are a saint
He was a physician from Antioch, a disciple and traveling-companion of the Apostle Paul, who refers to him as the ‘beloved physician.’ He wrote not only his Gospel but the Acts of the Apostles, dedicating both to Theophilus, who according to one tradition was the Governor of Achaia, a convert. The Orthodox Church commemorates and Evangelist Luke on October 18.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Evangelist Luke as a patron when they bear the name and at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on October 18. As an apostle, he is also asked to pray for missionaries and those who spread the Gospel.
Prayer
O holy Evangelist Luke, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.