Saint Bartholomew

Patron Saint of bookbinders, butchers, leather workers, Armenia.

Feast Day: August 24th

Martyr and Apostle

Believed to be Cana in Galilee

Feast Day: August 24th

Martyr and Apostle

Believed to be Cana in Galilee

About

Saint Bartholomew was one of the Twelve Apostles chosen by Jesus. He is often identified with Nathanael, the man whom Philip brought to Jesus in the Gospel of John. When Jesus saw him, He said, “Here is a true Israelite. There is no duplicity in him” (John 1:47). This powerful moment reveals Bartholomew’s honesty and pure heart, qualities that would shape his life as a disciple. After Pentecost, Saint Bartholomew is believed to have preached the Gospel in places like India, Mesopotamia, and Armenia. His fearless missionary work helped spread Christianity far beyond Jerusalem. According to tradition, he was martyred for his faith—flayed alive and then beheaded—making him one of the Church’s most heroic witnesses.

Legacy

Though not often mentioned in Scripture, Saint Bartholomew’s faith and sacrifice left a lasting mark on the early Church. His name is remembered with courage, purity, and unwavering loyalty to Christ. Churches and artworks around the world depict him with a knife or his own skin—symbols of his martyrdom and deep devotion. Bartholomew’s life is a reminder that true discipleship often happens quietly but faithfully.

“Here is a true Israelite. There is no duplicity in him.” – Jesus in John 1:47