Saint Andrew

Feast Day: November 30

• St. Andrew, also known as Andrew the Apostle, was born in the village of Bethsaida on the Sea of Galilee. He was the son of Jonah and the brother of Simon Peter. Like his brother, Andrew was a fisherman by trade. Both brothers lived a simple life, working with their father.

• Andrew was a disciple of John the Baptist before he met Jesus. When John pointed to Jesus and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God," Andrew immediately recognized Jesus as the Messiah. Without hesitation, he followed Jesus and became one of His first disciples. Andrew then brought his brother Simon (later named Peter) to meet Jesus, telling him, "We have found the Messiah." Because of this, Andrew is often called the Protokletos or "First-Called."

• Throughout Jesus' ministry, Andrew played a significant role among the apostles. He witnessed many of Jesus' miracles and teachings. Although he was not part of Jesus' closest circle of friends in Peter, James, and John, Andrew was still highly regarded for his faith and commitment. One of the most notable moments involving Andrew in the Gospels is when he brought the boy with five loaves and two fish to Jesus, leading to the miracle of feeding the 5,000.

• After Jesus' resurrection and ascension, Andrew continued his mission to spread the Gospel. According to tradition, he preached in various regions, including Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), Scythia (modern-day Ukraine and southern Russia), and Greece. He is particularly associated with the city of Patras in Greece, where he is believed to have been martyred.

• St. Andrew was martyred by crucifixion around 60 AD. According to tradition, he was tied, rather than nailed, to an X-shaped cross. This kind of cross was known as a "saltire" but is now often known simply as St. Andrew's Cross. St. Andrew himself requested this manner of crucifixion, as he felt unworthy to die on the same type of cross as Jesus. He is said to have preached to those who passed by while he hung on the cross, until he finally died after two days of suffering.

• St. Andrew's relics were eventually taken to Constantinople, and later to various locations across Europe, including Scotland, where he became the patron saint of the country. The saltire cross, which symbolizes his martyrdom, is featured on the Scottish flag.

• St. Andrew is also the patron saint of fishermen, singers, and various countries including Russia, Greece, and Romania. His feast day is celebrated on November 30th, which marks the traditional date of his martyrdom.

Saint Andrew, pray for us!