Feast of Saint Bartholomew the Apostle

August 24

Saint Bartholomew was one of the Twelve Apostles, often identified with Nathanael from the Gospel of John. His feast commemorates a man whom Jesus praised for his integrity and guilelessness.

Bartholomew and Nathanael

While the Synoptic Gospels list "Bartholomew" among the Twelve, John's Gospel never mentions this name but includes "Nathanael" in important scenes. Since Bartholomew means "son of Talmai" (a patronymic, not a given name), most scholars believe Nathanael was his given name—thus "Nathanael Bar-Talmai."

"An Israelite in Whom There Is No Deceit"

Nathanael's encounter with Jesus is memorable:

"Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said about him, 'Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!' Nathanael said to him, 'How do you know me?' Jesus answered him, 'Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.'" — John 1:47-48

This supernatural knowledge prompted Nathanael's confession:

"Nathanael answered him, 'Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are King of Israel!'" — John 1:49

Initial Skepticism

Nathanael's first response to Philip's announcement about Jesus was skeptical:

"Nathanael said to him, 'Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?' Philip said to him, 'Come and see.'" — John 1:46

Yet he was willing to investigate: "Come and see," Philip said, and Nathanael came. His skepticism yielded to faith when confronted with the person of Christ.

Post-Resurrection Appearance

Nathanael (Bartholomew) is mentioned again in John 21, present with Peter and others when Jesus appeared by the Sea of Tiberias after the Resurrection.

Mission and Martyrdom

According to various traditions, Bartholomew preached in:

• India (where he may have met Thomas)
• Armenia (where he is particularly venerated)
• Mesopotamia, Persia, and Egypt

He is believed to have been martyred in Armenia, traditionally by being flayed alive and then beheaded. Because of this, he is often depicted in art holding his own skin.

Patron Saint

Bartholomew is the patron saint of tanners, leather workers, and bookbinders—trades associated with skin and leather, reflecting the manner of his martyrdom.

Legacy

Bartholomew teaches us that honest skepticism can lead to genuine faith. His integrity earned Christ's praise, and his willingness to "come and see" led to apostleship.