Matthias

Životopis

Saint Matthias was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot among the twelve apostles after Jesus's Ascension, as recounted in the Acts of the Apostles. Though little is recorded about his personal life, Matthias was identified as a devoted follower of Jesus from the beginning of Christ's ministry through the Resurrection. His selection—determined by casting lots between Matthias and Joseph called Barsabas—emphasized divine providence in the apostolic succession. According to tradition, Matthias preached the Gospel extensively and faced persecution for his faith. Various accounts claim he ministered in Judea, Ethiopia, or Cappadocia before his martyrdom. The symbolic significance of his apostleship resonated powerfully: he represented the grace of redemption, having been chosen from those "witnessing to the Resurrection." His feast day celebrates apostolic dedication and the Church's continuation of Christ's mission through the apostolic succession.