Matthew

Apostle Matthew, also known as Levi, was one of the twelve original disciples of Jesus and is traditionally credited as the author of the Gospel of Matthew. Before his conversion, he lived in Capernaum and worked as a tax collector (publican) for the Roman Empire, a profession that made him widely despised by his fellow Jews who viewed him as a traitor and a "sinner". 

Early Life and Calling

* Identity: He was the son of Alphaeus and is believed by some traditions to be the brother of James, son of Alphaeus, another apostle.

* Profession: Matthew worked at a tax booth in Capernaum, where he collected duties on goods. His role required him to be literate in Greek and Aramaic, skills that likely aided in the recording of Jesus' teachings.

* The Call: According to the Gospels, Jesus simply said, "Follow me," and Matthew immediately left his lucrative post to become a disciple. He celebrated this transition by hosting a large feast for Jesus, attended by other tax collectors and social outcasts. 

Ministry and The Gospel

* Evangelist: Matthew is one of the "Four Evangelists." His Gospel was written primarily for a Jewish audience, emphasizing Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the promised Messiah.

* Linguistic Legacy: Early Church fathers like Papias suggested that Matthew originally compiled the "sayings" of Jesus in Hebrew or Aramaic before they were translated into Greek.

* Travels: After Jesus’ ascension, tradition holds that Matthew preached in Judea for about 15 years before traveling abroad to mission fields in Persia, Parthia, and Ethiopia. 

Death and Veneration

* Martyrdom: Most traditions state that Matthew was martyred for his faith, with some accounts specifying he was killed in Ethiopia after rebuking King Hirtacus. However, other historical sources, such as Heracleon, suggest he may have died of natural causes.

* Feast Days: His feast day is celebrated on September 21 in Western Christianity and November 16 in Eastern traditions.

* Patronage: Due to his former career, he is the patron saint of accountants, bankers, bookkeepers, and tax collectors. 

Source: Michael L. Tabanao, Facebook

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The Chosen