Bartholomew the Apostle
Bartholomew (Saint Bartholomew in Catholic and Orthodox traditions} was one of Jesus's twelve Apostles. Historians suggest that he was the same person as Nathaniel, as mentioned in John 1:45-51 and 21:2. He was one of the disciples to whom Jesus appeared at the Sea of Tiberias after His resurrection. He was also a witness of the Ascension. [1]
St. Bartholomew was probably a close friend of Saint Philip; his name is always mentioned in the Gospels in connection with him, and it was St. Philip who brought Bartholomew to Jesus.
Like most Apostles, Bartholomew was martyred, probably at Albanopolis in Armenia. He was probably flayed alive and crucified by the order of Astyages. The likely reason was that Bartholomew converted Astyages' brother Polymius, King of Armenia, to Christianity. Because of this legend Bartholomew is often shown in art as flayed and holding in his hand his own skin. Michelangelo's Last Judgment displays Bartholomew in this manner.
The Roman Martyrology says he preached in India, Greater Armenia, Mesopotamia, Persia and Egypt.
Feastday: August 24 (Roman); 11 June (Orthodox).
External links
- St. Bartholomew Catholic Online.
- Bartholomew the Apostle