Apostle · 1st century
Matthew
Apostle and Evangelist Matthew
New Calendar November 16 Old Calendar November 29
Why they are a saint
Matthew was tax collector called by Christ; author of the first Gospel. Tradition says he preached in Ethiopia or Persia and was martyred. The years given for this life are 1st century. His name is kept with the apostles of the Twelve or of the Seventy.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Matthew as a patron when they bear the name Matthew at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on November 16. Those who share his calling as a missionary also ask his prayers.
Prayer
O holy Matthew, 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.