The story of their life
Simon belonged to a group that also included Matthew the former tax collector, showing that Jesus formed community across sharp social and political differences.
Saint1st century · Feast October 28
St Simon the Zealot
Also known as Simon the Zealot, Simon the Cananaean, Simon the Apostle, Saint Simon
Apostle
Martyr
An apostle remembered by the title Zealot, offering a model of intense conviction placed under the discipline of Christ.
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 We do not publish invented quotations.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
First-century Judea contained strong political, religious and social tensions under Roman occupation.
Defining moments
- Being called among the Twelve
- Living with people from opposing backgrounds
- Sharing the Church’s earliest mission
Faith and spirituality
Zeal disciplined by communion, humility and loyalty to Christ above faction.
Why this saint matters today
Especially relevant to politically intense people who need conviction without hatred or ideological purity tests.
Patronage and intercession
People turn to St Simon the Zealot in matters of:
People seeking peace across political division
Political converts
Zealous young adults
A prayer
Lord of unity, through St Simon’s intercession purify our zeal, free us from hatred and teach us to work with people unlike ourselves. Amen.
Timeline
Sources and further reading
- https://www.vaticannews.va/en/saints/10/28.html
- https://www.liturgyoffice.org.uk/Calendar/
Source-quality status: unverified prototype