Mount Athos weathered lithography (icon) of Saint Matthew the Apostle in pine wood with carved decoration.

Saint Matthew was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ and came from Galilee. He was a tax collector by profession, as a result of which he gained a bad reputation. When he passed through Capernaum, Christ saw him, recognized his good soul, and called him to be His disciple. Matthew has since remained faithful and devoted to the Lord.

The first of the four Gospels is attributed to the Apostle and Evangelist Matthew. In this book, written in Hebrew and translated into Greek, the Saint narrates the life and teaching of Christ until His Ascension. After Pentecost, Matthew preached the Word of God for twelve years in Palestine and other nations. He slept in peace. The Orthodox Christian Church commemorates him on November 16 of each year.

Apolytikion of Apostle and Evangelist Matthew

Third Tone

O Holy Apostle and Evangelist Matthew, intercede to our merciful God, that He may grant our souls forgiveness of sins.