The story of their life
Matthias had followed from the baptism of John through the Resurrection yet remained unnamed among the Twelve until the praying community discerned a replacement for Judas.
Saint1st century · Feast May 14
St Matthias
Also known as Matthias the Apostle, Saint Matthias, St Matthias
Apostle
Martyr
A long-serving disciple chosen after the Ascension to take the vacant place among the Twelve.
A note on content. This profile is a prototype draft. Devotional traditions, historical facts and uncertain traditions will be clearly identified once entries are reviewed. We do not publish invented quotations.
Historical context
The earliest Church sought to restore the symbolic number of the Twelve while waiting for Pentecost.
Defining moments
- Following Jesus throughout his ministry
- Remaining after the Resurrection
- Being proposed as a qualified candidate
- Being chosen among the Twelve
Faith and spirituality
Patient preparation, readiness and trust that hidden years can equip a person for sudden responsibility.
Why this saint matters today
Speaks to people who feel like a second choice, wait years for recognition or unexpectedly step into a vacant role.
Patronage and intercession
People turn to St Matthias in matters of:
People waiting for a calling
Those chosen as replacements
People recovering from rejection
A prayer
God of faithful waiting, through St Matthias’s intercession prepare us in hidden seasons and make us ready when responsibility arrives. Amen.
Timeline
Sources and further reading
- https://www.vaticannews.va/en/saints/05/14.html
- https://www.liturgyoffice.org.uk/Calendar/
Source-quality status: unverified prototype