23/08/2026
, we celebrate the Feast of Saint Bartholomew, Apostle.
Saint Bartholomew, traditionally identified with Nathanael in the Gospel of John, was one of the Twelve Apostles chosen by Christ. When Jesus first saw him, He declared, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit." Moved by this encounter, Bartholomew professed his faith, proclaiming Jesus as the Son of God and the King of Israel. After the Resurrection, he faithfully preached the Gospel in various lands, bringing countless souls to Christ. According to tradition, he endured great persecution and was martyred for his unwavering faith, remaining steadfast until the end.
The life of Saint Bartholomew reminds us that God calls those who seek Him with sincere hearts. His courage, honesty, and complete trust in Christ inspire us to remain faithful in every circumstance and to boldly proclaim the Gospel through our words and the witness of our lives.
Let us pray:
+ Almighty and ever-living God, You strengthened Saint Bartholomew to faithfully proclaim the Gospel and to persevere even unto martyrdom. Through his intercession, grant us the grace to follow Christ with sincere hearts, to remain steadfast in our faith, and to courageously bear witness to Your love in our daily lives. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
