St. John the Apostle
An apostle remembered as the beloved disciple, a witness to the Cross, and a teacher of truth joined to love.
Image: Damiane — Public domain. Source and rights
Feast: December 27
Patronage and associations: Theologians, Writers, Friendship
Historical period: 1st century
The Feast of St. John, Apostle and Evangelist, is celebrated on December 27.
Quick facts
- Family
- Son of Zebedee; brother of James
- Vocation
- Apostle and evangelist
- Tradition
- Associated with Ephesus
Who Was St. John the Apostle?
John and his brother James were fishermen when Jesus called them. The Gospels show their early ambition and intensity, but they also place John within the closest circle of disciples who witnessed the Transfiguration and Jesus’ agony.
The Gospel of John identifies a beloved disciple standing near the Cross, where Jesus entrusted his mother to the disciple’s care. Church tradition strongly associates this witness with John and also links him to the Fourth Gospel, the Johannine letters, and Revelation, while scholars discuss the exact process by which those texts took shape.
John’s Christian memory holds together contemplation and responsibility. Love is not sentiment without truth, and truth is not a weapon without love. The disciple who remained near the Cross calls Christians to remain in Christ and love one another.
What St. John the Apostle Teaches Us Today
1. Remain near Jesus
Faith matures through presence with Christ in glory and suffering.
2. Truth and love belong together
Christian conviction must become patient, concrete charity.
3. Receive spiritual family
At the Cross, discipleship creates bonds of faithful care.
A Prayer Asking for St. John the Apostle’s Intercession
Lord Jesus, you called St. John to remain close to you and to teach the Church about divine love. Through his intercession, keep me faithful at the Cross, truthful without harshness, and loving without compromise. Help me receive the people you entrust to my care. St. John, pray for us. Amen.
Original prayer written by Catholic Explained.