Each day, the liturgical calendar recalls the memory of men and women who left a significant mark on the history of Christianity. October 18 is especially dedicated to Saint Luke the Evangelist, known for his connection with the apostle Saint Paul and for a body of work that has had an enormous influence on the transmission of Christian teachings.
SAINT LUKE THE EVANGELIST
Saint Luke the Evangelist lived during the first century and, according to tradition, came from Antioch, an important city in the ancient world located in what is now Turkey. He is traditionally identified as a physician, a profession mentioned by Saint Paul in one of his letters. Although little is known about his early years, he is considered to have been one of the apostle's closest collaborators during his travels and evangelizing work.
Christian tradition attributes to Saint Luke the writing of the Gospel according to Saint Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. The former contains numerous episodes from the life of Jesus, including accounts related to his birth, teachings and miracles. The Acts of the Apostles, meanwhile, recounts the expansion of the first Christian communities and gives particular prominence to the missionary activity of Saint Paul.
The details surrounding Saint Luke's death are not fully documented, and different traditions exist regarding his final years. The Church celebrates his feast day every October 18 and recognizes him as the patron saint of physicians and artists, especially painters, because of an ancient tradition attributing to him the creation of images of the Virgin Mary. His legacy remains closely linked to the history of Christianity and the spread of the New Testament texts.
WHY ARE SAINTS CELEBRATED?
The Christian saints' calendar originated in the tradition of remembering each day the saints and blessed recognized by the Church. These commemorations highlight the lives and testimonies of people who stood out for their faith and the example they set throughout their lives.
Over time, the celebration of saints also became linked to name days, meaning that many people celebrate their own saint's day on the date when the Church remembers the saint after whom they were named. This custom remains deeply rooted in many countries with a Christian tradition.
