The Feast of St. Matthew is a significant liturgical celebration observed primarily within the Roman Catholic Church and certain Anglican communities, marking the martyrdom of the apostle believed to be the author of the first Gospel. This holy day is fixed on September 21st in the General Roman Calendar, positioning it within the liturgical season of Ordinary Time, a period that emphasizes the ongoing mission of the Church. While the solemnity holds a place in the universal calendar, specific celebrations may vary by diocese, particularly in local traditions that honor particular patronages associated with the evangelist.
Historical Context and Biblical Legacy
To understand the Feast of St. Matthew requires acknowledging the transformation of the man once known as Levi, a tax collector sitting at the receipt of custom. According to the Gospel narrative, Jesus issued a simple yet revolutionary command: "Follow me." This directive compelled Matthew to abandon his lucrative post and become one of the twelve disciples, a decision that would define his legacy. His background as a tax collector—a role often viewed as corrupt and despised by his fellow Jews—makes his discipleship a powerful testament to the grace and mercy central to the Christian message.
From Tax Collector to Evangelist
After his calling, Matthew hosted a farewell banquet for his colleagues, an event that drew criticism from the Pharisees who questioned why Jesus would associate with such sinners. It is within this context that Matthew likely began the meticulous work of composing his Gospel. Tradition holds that he wrote his account primarily for a Jewish Christian audience, emphasizing how Jesus fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament. His symbol as an evangelist is often depicted as a man or an angel, representing his detailed focus on Christ's humanity and his role as the royal chronicler of the Incarnation.
The Liturgical Celebration
On the Feast of St. Matthew, the liturgy often draws from the biblical account of his martyrdom, where he was reportedly killed in Ethiopia or Macedonia by a sword or an ax. The readings selected for the Mass highlight the dual nature of his calling: the initial response of obedience and the ultimate cost of discipleship. The prayers and scriptures serve to remind the faithful that following Christ is not merely a matter of intellectual assent but a total commitment that may require sacrifice. The liturgical color for the day is red, symbolizing the fiery zeal of the martyrs and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
Global Observances and Local Traditions
While the date remains consistent in the Gregorian calendar, the observance of the feast can differ based on the liturgical calendar of specific countries. In places where the solemnity is observed with greater prominence, processions and special prayers dedicated to St. Matthew as the patron saint of bankers, tax collectors, and accountants are common. These titles stem logically from his former profession, offering a spiritual connection for those engaged in financial matters. The feast serves as a reminder that all work, when done in service to God, can become a vocation.
Theological Significance
The Feast of St. Matthew extends beyond the commemoration of a historical figure; it represents the fulfillment of God's promise to include the Gentiles in the plan of salvation. Matthew's Gospel is meticulously structured, often drawing parallels between the events of Jesus' life and the prophecies of the Hebrew Scriptures. By honoring Matthew, the Church affirms the continuity of salvation history and the validity of the New Covenant. It is a celebration of how God can take the most unlikely of individuals and use them to deliver a message that changes the world.
