Saint Matthew’s life is a testimony to radical conversion. Known first as a tax collector—a profession despised for its association with corruption and collaboration—Matthew was called directly by Christ and responded without hesitation. His story reveals that holiness begins not with perfection, but with surrender. In Matthew, the Church sees the power of mercy to transform a compromised life into faithful witness.
🌿 A Life Ordered by God
Matthew, also called Levi, lived in 1st-century Judea and worked as a tax collector before encountering Jesus. Tax collectors were viewed as traitors and sinners, enriching themselves at the expense of their own people. Yet when Jesus passed by and said, “Follow me,” Matthew rose and followed Him immediately (Matthew 9:9).
From that moment, Matthew reordered his life entirely. He left behind wealth, status, and security to walk with Christ. His obedience was not gradual—it was decisive. Matthew’s conversion shows that God’s call cuts through shame and history, inviting the sinner into discipleship.
🌿 Charity That Cost Something
Matthew’s response to Christ included hospitality and generosity. After his calling, he hosted a meal for Jesus, inviting others considered sinners and outcasts. This act was costly—not only financially, but socially. Matthew accepted public criticism in order to bring others into the presence of Christ.
His charity was rooted in gratitude. Having received mercy, he extended it freely.
🌿 A Saint in the Moment of Prayer
After the Resurrection and Ascension of Christ, Matthew preached the Gospel, traditionally believed to have evangelized regions of Judea and beyond. While historical details of his death vary, ancient tradition holds that Matthew ultimately gave his life as a martyr for the faith.
His witness was sealed not by words alone, but by fidelity unto death.
🌿 Canonization and Legacy
As one of the Twelve Apostles, Saint Matthew was recognized as a saint by the early Church through apostolic authority. He is traditionally credited as the author of the Gospel of Matthew, written especially for a Jewish audience to proclaim Jesus as the promised Messiah.
His feast day is celebrated on September 21. His relics are venerated in Salerno, Italy.
🌿 Patron of Accountants, Bankers, and Ethical Decision-Making
Saint Matthew is honored as the patron saint of accountants, bankers, tax officials, and those working with finances.
People pray to Saint Matthew for:
- Conversion of heart
- Integrity in financial matters
- Ethical decision-making at work
- New beginnings after failure
- Courage to follow God’s call
🙏 Traditional Prayer to Saint Matthew the Apostle
Saint Matthew, apostle and evangelist,
you answered Christ’s call without delay
and left behind all to follow Him.
Obtain for us the grace
to turn away from sin,
to embrace conversion,
and to live with integrity and faith.
Teach us to use our talents rightly
and to follow Christ with undivided hearts.
Saint Matthew the Apostle,
pray for us. Amen.
Saint Matthew reminds us that no past is beyond redemption, and no calling is too late when Christ invites us to follow.
