Saint Luke

Vocation

Evangelist according to Christian tradition

Period

1st century

Celebration

October 18

Life and historical reference points

Tradition attributes the third Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles to Luke, two works linked by their address to Theophilus and by the continuity of their narrative. The Gospel notably highlights mercy, prayer, care for the poor and several female figures. Acts recounts the expansion of the early communities. Identifying the author with Paul’s companion named Luke belongs to ancient tradition.

Recognizing his representations

The winged ox is his symbol in the tetramorph. The book and writing instruments evoke his work; the portrait of Mary recalls the tradition that makes him an icon painter.

What must be distinguished

Luke was not one of the Twelve. The account of his medical career, and especially the icons attributed to him, should not be treated as a fully proven biographical record. The texts can be studied without erasing the distinction between attribution and evidence.

Understanding his spiritual heritage

The parables of the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son offer ways to explore how he tells the story of mercy. Reading the Gospel and Acts together reveals the continuity between Jesus’ life and the mission of his witnesses.

Feast, memorial and intercession

The date given refers to the Roman rite or the specified local usage. The actual celebration may vary according to the calendar of the year. In the Catholic faith, asking for a saint’s intercession means asking them to pray to God; it does not mean attributing independent power to them. An image or devotional object may accompany this practice but is not necessary for prayer.