Our Patron Saint
St. Luke the Apostle
and Evangelist
Celebrated October 18
St. Luke holds a special place in the life of our parish as our patron saint. Through his Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles, he introduces generations of Christians to the life of Jesus Christ and the beginnings of His Church. His witness invites us to deepen our faith, care for our neighbors, and share the good news of Christ.
A Physician and Faithful Companion
The Church remembers St. Luke as a native of Antioch and a physician who became a devoted companion of the Apostle Paul. His medical vocation is reflected in Paul’s affectionate reference to him in Colossians 4:14. Orthodox tradition also numbers Luke among the Seventy Apostles and identifies him as the unnamed disciple who walked beside Cleopas on the road to Emmaus, encountering the risen Christ.
A Witness to Christ and His Church
The Gospel According to Luke
At the beginning of his Gospel, Luke explains his intention to provide a carefully investigated, orderly account so that his reader may have confidence in what he has been taught. His writing leads us through Christ’s earthly life, ministry, Crucifixion, and Resurrection.
Among its treasured passages are the parables of the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son. These accounts call us to show compassion beyond familiar boundaries and to trust in God’s mercy as we turn toward Him. They remain invitations to live our faith through repentance, forgiveness, and love.
The Life of the Early Church
In the Acts of the Apostles, Luke continues the story beyond Christ’s Ascension. He recounts Pentecost, the preaching of the Apostles, and the spread of the Gospel to new communities. His account shows the Church growing through the work of the Holy Spirit amid both joyful discoveries and difficult trials.
St. Luke and Holy Icons
Orthodox tradition honors St. Luke as the first iconographer, associating him especially with images of the Theotokos holding Christ. This tradition connects his witness through words with the Church’s witness through sacred images: both direct our attention toward Christ and His saving work.
The winged ox is another familiar symbol associated with Luke, traditionally understood as pointing to sacrifice and Christ’s priestly ministry.
His Witness in Our Parish
As a parish bearing his name, we look to St. Luke as an example of faithful service. His life encourages us to study Scripture, remain steadfast in prayer, welcome those seeking Christ, and offer practical care to people in need.
We celebrate his principal feast on October 18, giving thanks for his enduring witness and asking his intercessions as we grow together in the life of the Church.
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