Saint Andew the Apostle

First century B.C – First century A.D.

Saint Andrew was one of the Twelve Apostles of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the brother of Saint Peter, and traditionally honored as the first Apostle called by the Savior. A fisherman from Galilee, he devoted his life to preaching the Gospel and courageously suffered martyrdom rather than abandon his faith in Christ.

Feast Day

November 30

Where From

Bethsaida, Galilee

Vocation

Apostle, fisherman, missionary, and martyr

Patron of

Scotland, Russia, fishermen, and fishmongers

About Saint Andew the Apostle

Saint Andrew was born in Bethsaida in Galilee and worked as a fisherman alongside his brother, Saint Peter. Before following Our Lord Jesus Christ, Andrew was a disciple of Saint John the Baptist. When John identified Jesus as the Lamb of God, Andrew followed the Savior and soon brought his brother Peter to Him. Chosen as one of the Twelve Apostles, Andrew witnessed Christ’s miracles, heard His divine teachings, and helped proclaim the coming of the Kingdom of God. His readiness to follow Christ made him a model of faith and obedience.

After Pentecost, Saint Andrew traveled to preach the Gospel, with ancient traditions associating his missionary work with Greece and regions around the Black Sea. According to tradition, he suffered martyrdom at Patras, where he was crucified. Later devotional tradition describes his cross as X-shaped, now known as Saint Andrew’s Cross. His steadfast witness has inspired Christians for centuries. Saint Andrew reminds Catholic families to answer God’s call generously, lead others to Christ, and remain faithful through suffering and sacrifice.