Saint Andrew the Apostle
The Feast of Saint Andrew, celebrated on November 30th, honors the first-called of the apostles and the brother of Saint Peter. Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, Greece, Russia, and fishermen.
The First Called
Andrew was a fisherman from Bethsaida who became a disciple of John the Baptist. When John pointed to Jesus and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God," Andrew followed Jesus and spent the day with him.
"He first found his own brother, Simon, and said to him, 'We have found the Messiah!' (which is, being interpreted, Christ). He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, 'You are Simon the son of Jonah." — John 1:41-42
Andrew is thus both the first called and the first evangelist—the one who brought Peter to Christ.
In the Gospels
Andrew appears several times in the Gospel accounts:
- At the multiplication of loaves, he brings forward the boy with five loaves and two fish (John 6:8-9)
- When Greeks wished to see Jesus, they approached Andrew and Philip (John 12:20-22)
- He is among the four who ask Jesus about the end times on the Mount of Olives (Mark 13:3)
Apostolic Ministry
After Pentecost, tradition holds that Andrew preached in Scythia (modern Ukraine and Russia), Greece, and Asia Minor. He is considered the founder of the Church of Constantinople.
Martyrdom
According to tradition, Andrew was martyred in Patras, Greece, around 60 AD. He was crucified on an X-shaped cross, now known as "Saint Andrew's Cross" or "Saltire." Legend says he preached for two days from the cross before dying.
He reportedly said to his cross: "O good cross, made beautiful by the body of the Lord... receive me and present me to my Master."
Patron of Scotland
The Saltire (white X-cross on a blue background) is the national flag of Scotland. According to legend, Andrew's relics were brought to Scotland in the 8th century. The town of St. Andrews became an important pilgrimage center.
Saint Andrew's Day
November 30th begins the liturgical season of preparation for Christmas. In some traditions, Andrew's feast is considered a time to pray for a good spouse, as Andrew was known for "introducing" people to Jesus.