Luke the Evangelist
Physician and evangelist whose Gospel emphasized Christ's compassion for the marginalized.
Patronage
Physicians, artists, surgeons, painters, notaries, butchers, glass workers
Virtues & Traits
Biography
Luke was a physician and companion of Saint Paul, one of the four evangelists who composed a Gospel. His Gospel, written primarily for Gentile converts, emphasizes Jesus's compassion for the poor, outcasts, and women. Luke also authored the Acts of the Apostles, providing the most detailed early history of the Church after Pentecost. Though he himself was not an apostle, Luke's meticulous historical approach and medical perspective informed his theological writings. Tradition holds that Luke accompanied Paul on missionary journeys and remained with him during imprisonment. Some traditions suggest he was also a painter, making him patron of artists. Luke's Gospel uniquely includes parables like the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son. He died a martyr around 84 AD in Boeotia, Greece. His feast day falls on October 18, often celebrated as the patronal feast of physicians and artists.
Prayer
Prayer to St. Luke the Evangelist
O glorious St. Luke, beloved physician and evangelist, who with watchful care and tender compassion recorded the life and teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ, we beseech thee to intercede for us before the throne of God. Grant us the grace to follow faithfully the Gospel message thou hast transmitted to us, and help us to grow in love for Jesus and His Blessed Mother, whom thou didst honor with such devotion. May we, like thee, become faithful witnesses to Christ's mercy and truth in our own time. Through thy intercession, obtain for us the gift of perseverance in faith and the courage to proclaim the Good News to all nations. Amen.
Generated by Find My Saint for personal reflection. Not an official Church prayer.