St. John the Apostle and Evangelist

St. John the Apostle holds a unique position as both an Apostle and an Evangelist. His close relationship with Jesus and his significant contributions to the New Testament make him a central figure in Christianity. John is known for his authorship of the Gospel of John, three Epistles, and the Book of Revelation.

St. John the Apostle was one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus to spread his teachings. Alongside his brother James, John was called by Jesus while they were fishing. They immediately left their nets and followed Christ, demonstrating their unwavering faith and commitment.

John’s Gospel is distinct from the other three synoptic Gospels, as it focuses on the spiritual and theological aspects of Jesus’ life and teachings. His writings are characterized by profound insights into the divinity of Christ and the importance of love and faith.

One of the symbols associated with St. John is the eagle. This symbol represents the height and majesty of his Gospel, soaring above earthly matters to explore the depths of spiritual truth. The Gospel of John is often regarded as a profound and contemplative account of Jesus’ life, emphasizing his divine nature and the eternal life he offers to believers.

Early Life and Calling

St. John’s early life and calling were marked by a profound encounter with Jesus. Born into a fishing family, John grew up in Galilee alongside his brother James. It was during their time as fishermen that Jesus called them to become his disciples.

The moment of their calling was significant. Jesus approached John and James while they were mending their nets by the Sea of Galilee. With a simple command, “Follow me,” Jesus invited them to leave behind their livelihood and follow him. Without hesitation, John and James immediately left their nets and followed Jesus, demonstrating their unwavering faith and commitment to him.

This calling marked the beginning of John’s journey as a disciple of Jesus. Throughout his time with Jesus, John witnessed countless miracles, heard profound teachings, and experienced the transformative power of Christ’s love. His close relationship with Jesus allowed him to witness intimate moments, such as the Transfiguration and the Last Supper.

John’s calling by Jesus not only shaped his life but also influenced his writings. His Gospel and Epistles reflect his deep understanding of Jesus’ teachings and his desire to share the message of love and faith with others. Through his writings, John continues to inspire believers to follow Christ and experience the transformative power of his love.

Relationship with Jesus

John’s relationship with Jesus was unlike any other disciple. He was often referred to as the “Beloved Disciple,” a title that highlighted the special bond he shared with Jesus. This unique relationship allowed John to witness and participate in some of the most significant moments in Jesus’ life.

One of these moments was the Transfiguration, where Jesus revealed his divine glory to Peter, James, and John. John was one of the privileged few who witnessed this extraordinary event, seeing Jesus transformed before his eyes. This experience undoubtedly deepened John’s understanding of Jesus’ divinity and solidified his faith in him.

Another pivotal moment in John’s relationship with Jesus was the Last Supper. As one of the twelve apostles, John was present at this intimate gathering where Jesus shared his final meal with his disciples. John sat close to Jesus, leaning on his chest, a position that symbolized their close bond. This proximity allowed John to hear Jesus’ words and teachings firsthand, giving him a unique perspective on Jesus’ message of love and salvation.

Perhaps the most profound demonstration of John’s relationship with Jesus was his presence at the crucifixion. While many of the other disciples had fled or were in hiding, John remained steadfast at the foot of the cross. It was there that Jesus entrusted his mother Mary to John’s care, highlighting the deep trust and love between them. This act not only emphasized John’s devotion to Jesus but also his commitment to caring for those entrusted to him.

The depth of John’s relationship with Jesus is evident in his writings. His Gospel, in particular, reflects his intimate knowledge of Jesus’ teachings and his desire to share them with others. John’s Gospel emphasizes the divinity of Jesus and the importance of faith in him as the Son of God. Through his Gospel, John invites readers to believe in Jesus and experience the eternal life that comes through faith in him.

In addition to his Gospel, John’s Epistles also reflect his deep understanding of Jesus’ message of love and truth. He emphasizes the importance of loving one another and living in accordance with God’s commandments. John’s writings provide practical guidance for believers on how to live out their faith and demonstrate God’s love to others.

Overall, John’s relationship with Jesus was marked by intimacy, trust, and a deep understanding of Jesus’ teachings. This unique bond allowed John to witness and participate in significant moments in Jesus’ life, shaping his perspective and influencing his writings. Through his Gospel and Epistles, John continues to inspire believers to cultivate a personal relationship with Jesus and live out their faith in love and truth.

Contributions to the New Testament

St. John made significant contributions to the New Testament through his writings and his missionary work. His Gospel, Epistles, and the book of Revelation provide unique insights into the life and teachings of Jesus, as well as guidance for believers.

The Gospel of John stands out for its distinctive theological depth. Unlike the synoptic Gospels, John’s Gospel emphasizes the divinity of Jesus and his role as the Son of God. Through his Gospel, John invites readers to believe in Jesus and experience eternal life through faith in him. The Gospel of John also includes several well-known passages, such as the prologue that speaks of the Word made flesh and the famous discourse on the Bread of Life.

In addition to his Gospel, John’s Epistles offer profound insights on love and truth. His letters emphasize the importance of loving one another and living in accordance with God’s commandments. John’s writings provide practical guidance for believers on how to live out their faith and demonstrate God’s love to others. His Epistles highlight the significance of love as a central theme in the Christian life.

Furthermore, John’s book of Revelation presents an apocalyptic vision of the end times. This book contains vivid imagery and symbolic language, revealing the ultimate victory of Christ over evil. It also offers encouragement and hope to believers facing persecution and challenges. Additionally, Revelation has connections to liturgy and worship, as it contains descriptions of heavenly worship and the praise of God.

In addition to his writings, St. John’s missionary work was instrumental in spreading the gospel and establishing churches in Asia Minor. He traveled extensively, sharing the message of Jesus and nurturing the faith of believers. His influence and teachings continue to impact the Christian community to this day.

Overall, St. John’s contributions to the New Testament are significant. His Gospel, Epistles, and the book of Revelation provide deep theological insights, practical guidance, and hope for believers. Through his writings and missionary work, St. John played a crucial role in the early Christian community and continues to inspire and guide believers in their faith journey.

Symbols and Themes in His Writings

In addition to his profound theological insights, St. John’s writings are rich with symbols and themes that deepen our understanding of Jesus and his mission. These symbols and themes include light, truth, divine love, and the Word made flesh.

One of the prominent symbols in John’s writings is light. In his Gospel, John describes Jesus as the light of the world, illuminating the darkness and bringing salvation to humanity. This symbol of light represents the divine presence and guidance that Jesus offers to believers. It signifies the truth and enlightenment that comes through a relationship with Christ.

Another important theme in John’s writings is truth. Throughout his Gospel and Epistles, John emphasizes the importance of knowing and living in truth. Jesus himself declares, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). John encourages believers to seek and embrace the truth found in Jesus, which leads to freedom and abundant life.

Divine love is another central theme in John’s writings. He highlights the depth and sacrificial nature of God’s love for humanity. In his Gospel, John famously states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). This theme of divine love underscores the transformative power of God’s love and the invitation for believers to love one another as God has loved them.

Lastly, John’s writings emphasize the concept of the Word made flesh. In the prologue of his Gospel, John introduces Jesus as the Word who became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14). This theme highlights the incarnation of Jesus, his divine nature, and his role as the revealer of God’s truth and love. It emphasizes the intimate connection between God and humanity through Jesus Christ.

These symbols and themes in John’s writings contribute to a deeper understanding of Jesus and his mission. They invite readers to contemplate the significance of light, truth, divine love, and the incarnation in their own lives. Through these symbols and themes, St. John’s writings continue to inspire and guide believers in their faith journey, reminding them of the transformative power of Jesus’ teachings and the profound love of God.

Legacy and Feast Day

John’s enduring legacy in the Christian faith is marked by his significant contributions to the New Testament and his profound teachings on the nature of Jesus and the love of God. His impact on Christianity is celebrated on December 27th, which is his feast day.

On this day, Christians around the world commemorate the life and teachings of St. John the Apostle. They reflect on his role as one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus and his close relationship with the Savior. John’s writings, particularly his Gospel and Epistles, continue to inspire and guide believers in their faith journey.

Through his Gospel, John provides a unique perspective on the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus. His emphasis on the divinity of Christ and the transformative power of faith has had a profound impact on Christian theology. John’s writings invite readers to deepen their understanding of Jesus as the Word made flesh, the light of the world, and the embodiment of divine love and truth.

St. John’s teachings continue to resonate with Christians today, offering guidance and inspiration in their daily lives. His emphasis on love, truth, and the intimate relationship between God and humanity serves as a reminder of the core principles of the Christian faith. John’s legacy is one of faithfulness, devotion, and a deep love for Christ, which continues to inspire believers to live out their faith and share the message of God’s love with others.

Patron Saint of …

He is the patron saint of authors, love, and loyalty.

Mass Readings for the Feast of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist

• First Reading – 1 John 1:1-4: John emphasizes the truth of the Word of Life and invites the reader to join in the fellowship with the Father and Jesus Christ. The author’s aim is to complete their joy by sharing this message.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 97: This prayer calls for the righteous to rejoice in the Lord, who reigns over the earth with justice and righteousness. The psalm highlights the glory and righteousness of the Lord and calls on the righteous to give thanks and be glad in his holy name.
• Gospel – John 20:1a and 2-8: Mary Magdalene ran to tell Simon Peter and another disciple that the Lord’s body was missing from the tomb. Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb and found the linen wrappings there, with the other disciple arriving first and believing upon seeing the scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

What date Is the Feast of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist?

The feast of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist is observed annually on December 27.

The next date for the feast day is Friday December 27, 2024.

What are the Mass readings for the Feast of St. John, Apostle and Evangelist?

The Mass readings for Friday December 27, 2024 are:
First Reading – 1 John 1:1-4: Testimony and Fellowship with God
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 97: The Majesty and Justice of God
Gospel – John 20:1a and 2-8: The Empty Tomb and Belief in the Resurrection

Who was St. John the Apostle and Evangelist?

St. John, also known as John the Apostle, was one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus to be his closest companions. He is also referred to as the Evangelist because he wrote the Gospel of John, as well as three epistles (1 John, 2 John, and 3 John) and the Book of Revelation in the New Testament.

What is the significance of St. John the Evangelist’s writings?

St. John’s writings hold great significance in the Christian faith. His Gospel provides a unique perspective on the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus, emphasizing his divinity and the transformative power of faith. His epistles offer guidance on living a life of love, truth, and obedience to God. The Book of Revelation provides a prophetic vision of the end times and the ultimate victory of Christ.

What are some key themes in St. John the Evangelist’s writings?

St. John’s writings are characterized by several key themes. These include the divinity of Christ, the importance of faith, the power of love, the need for obedience to God’s commandments, and the promise of eternal life through belief in Jesus.

How did St. John the Apostle’s relationship with Jesus influence his writings?

St. John the Apostle had a close relationship with Jesus, being one of the three disciples who were present at significant moments in Jesus’ life, such as the Transfiguration and the Agony in the Garden. This intimate connection with Jesus is reflected in his writings, which convey a deep understanding of Jesus’ teachings and a profound love for the Savior.

What is the significance of St. John the Evangelist’s emphasis on love?

St. John’s emphasis on love is a central theme in his writings. He highlights the love of God for humanity and the importance of believers loving one another. St. John famously wrote, “God is love” (1 John 4:8), emphasizing the inseparable connection between God and love.

How does St. John’s Gospel differ from the other Gospels?

St. John’s Gospel differs from the other Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) in several ways. It includes unique stories and teachings of Jesus, such as the wedding at Cana, the raising of Lazarus, and the “I am” sayings of Jesus. It also places a greater emphasis on the divinity of Christ and the spiritual significance of his ministry.

What is the significance of St. John’s use of symbolism in his writings?

St. John frequently uses symbolism in his writings to convey deeper spiritual truths. For example, he refers to Jesus as the “Word” (Logos) in the opening verses of his Gospel, highlighting Jesus’ divine nature. He also uses symbols such as light and darkness, water, and bread to convey spiritual concepts and truths.

How did St. John the Apostle die?

According to tradition, St. John the Apostle died of natural causes in Ephesus, modern-day Turkey, in the late first century. He is the only one of the twelve apostles who is believed to have died a natural death.

Did St. John the Apostle have any siblings?

According to the Gospels, St. John the Apostle had a brother named James, who was also one of the twelve apostles. They were the sons of Zebedee and Salome.

Did St. John the Apostle witness the crucifixion of Jesus?

Yes, according to the Gospel accounts, St. John the Apostle was present at the crucifixion of Jesus along with Jesus’ mother, Mary, and several other women.

Why is St. John the Evangelist’s symbol an eagle?

The eagle represents what comes from above, and John’s gospel focuses on Jesus as the incarnation of the divine Word.

What was St. John the Apostle’s relationship to Jesus?

In his gospel, John refers to himself as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” and depicts a very close relationship with Jesus. Through the eyes of John, we can also see ourselves as beloved disciples of Jesus.

Who is St. John the Apostle and Evangelist the patron saint of?

St. John the Apostle and Evangelist is the patron saint of authors, love, and loyalty.

Video about St. John the Apostle and Evangelist

St. John the Apostle holds immense importance to Catholics due to his significant contributions to the New Testament and his profound teachings on the nature of Jesus and the love of God. As one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus, John had a close relationship with the Savior, which is reflected in his writings.

Through his Gospel and Epistles, John provides a unique perspective on the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus. His emphasis on the divinity of Christ and the transformative power of faith has had a profound impact on Christian theology. John’s writings invite readers to deepen their understanding of Jesus as the Word made flesh, the light of the world, and the embodiment of divine love and truth.

Catholics hold St. John’s teachings in high regard, as they offer guidance and inspiration in their daily lives. His emphasis on love, truth, and the intimate relationship between God and humanity serves as a reminder of the core principles of the Christian faith. John’s legacy is one of faithfulness, devotion, and a deep love for Christ, which continues to inspire believers to live out their faith and share the message of God’s love with others.

In conclusion, St. John the Apostle’s importance to Catholics lies in his profound teachings, his close relationship with Jesus, and his enduring legacy in the Christian faith. His writings continue to inspire and guide believers, reminding them of the transformative power of faith and the boundless love of God. St. John’s contributions to the New Testament and his unwavering devotion to Christ make him a revered figure in the Catholic Church.