Saint Matthew

Tradition tells us that St. Matthew, also known as Levi, was a Jewish tax collector in Capernaum when he answered Jesus’ call to follow Him (Matthew 9:9). He was one of the 12 apostles and, being the author of the gospel under his name, he is known as Matthew the Evangelist.

Matthew’s position in society in his day cannot be overlooked. At the time, Capernaum was occupied by Rome, and the Israelites were living under the rule of Caesar Augustus. They were exploited and oppressed by the Roman guards. Matthew was a tax collector and an Israelite working on the side of Caesar. Tax collectors, or Publicans, grew wealthy exploiting their own people and collaborating with Rome. They were considered traitors and extreme sinners by Jewish society. Matthew’s decision to leave that life behind and follow Jesus would have been a complete turn around; a conversion experience and an embracing of God’s mercy.

Known as a Scribe, Matthew wrote his Gospel from the perspective of an educated Jew who knew the Tora. He would have understood that Jesus was the Messiah; the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises.

We see God’s providence at work in Matthew. His skills and talents were put to use for the advancement of God’s Kingdom, and he is an excellent example of radical transformation through a single encounter with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The Feast of St. Matthew is September 21st.