Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke – October 18th

The Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke is one of the four Evangelists. Through his writings, the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, we are offered an intimate glimpse into the early Christian world and the ministry of our Lord, God, and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Born in the city of Antioch, a prominent center of early Christian activity, St. Luke came from a pagan background. A learned man, he pursued studies in medicine, which gave him a unique perspective on human suffering and compassion. He was also skilled in the arts and painted icons of the Most Holy Theotokos, establishing him as the first Christian iconographer. These icons are revered as precious treasures and inspire countless faithful around the world.
St. Luke is affectionately called Paul’s “beloved physician” (Colossians 4:14), emphasizing the close bond between the two. He joined St. Paul on some of his missionary journeys. St. Luke’s attention to detail and compassionate understanding of people contributed to his meticulous Gospel writing, where he sought to depict Christ as the Savior of all humanity, especially the marginalized.
The Gospel of Luke is distinct in its compassionate approach, emphasizing Christ’s mercy and care for the poor, women, and Gentiles. St. Luke’s account offers insights into Christ’s ministry, including parables and healings not found in the other Gospels. He recounts stories such as the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son, which illustrate the boundless mercy and love of God. Furthermore, St. Luke’s Gospel gives a particular focus on the role of the Holy Spirit.
In addition to his Gospel, St. Luke authored the Acts of the Apostles, which chronicles the birth and growth of the early Church. This work gives us a firsthand account of the Apostles’ missionary efforts and the establishment of Christian communities across the Roman Empire. St. Luke describes Pentecost, the conversion of St. Paul, and the spread of the Gospel from Jerusalem to Rome, offering a detailed history of the early Church’s faith, trials, and triumphs.
St. Luke continued his mission work even after St. Paul’s martyrdom, carrying the Gospel to Greece and, according to some accounts, Egypt. He is believed to have lived to an old age and to have been martyred, sealing his life’s work with his own blood. He was buried in Thebes of Greece (referred to as Thebes with the seven gates to differentiate as other ancient cities were also named Thebes), where many would come to venerate his relics.
As an iconographer, evangelist, and physician, St. Luke is honored as a patron of artists, doctors, and those who seek God’s mercy. His life exemplifies devotion, compassion, and a profound love for humanity.