Roman Inc. St. Luke Patron of Artists and Doctors

St. Luke

PATRON OF ARTISTS AND PHYSICIANS
EVANGELIST

Prayer to Saint Luke

Most wonderful St. Luke, you were animated by the Heavenly Spirit of Love. In faithfully of Jesus in your Gospel, you also showed His Divinity and His genuine compassion for all human beings. May the Holy Spirit, instructor of the faithful, help me to understand Christ's words and faithfully apply them in my life. Amen.

St. Luke

PATRON OF ARTISTS AND PHYSICIANS (CA 10-84 AD)

St. Luke was born to Greek gentile parents in Antioch, Syria, probably around 10 AD. He was an early convert to Christianity, fluent in Greek and Aramaic. He was trained as a physician but was also skillful writer and painter. He wrote the Gospel of Luke in 53 AD and the Acts of the Apostles in 63 AD. Although not an eyewitness to the life of Christ, he recorded the testimony of eyewitnesses, including Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Peter. His writings show special sensitivity to evangelize the gentiles. Luke's unique perspective can be seen in the six miracles and 18 parables not found in the other gospels. Only in Luke's gospel do we hear the story of the Annunciation, the visit Elizabeth, the Presentation, and the finding of the child Jesus in the temple. Only in Luke's gospel do we hear the parable of the Prodigal Son. He described Jesus as one who loved the poor, opened the door of God's kingdom to all, and saw hope in God's mercy for everyone.

Luke was a companion of Paul in his travels and ministry of the Gospel. Paul referred to him as "the beloved physician". He loyally stayed with Paul when he was imprisoned in Rome when all other companions had fled. After Paul's martyrdom, Luke preached in Italy, Gaul, Dalmatia and Egypt. He was martyred at the age of 74.

In addition to leaving us the priceless treasures of the Gospel of Luke and Acts of the Apostles, Luke left many paintings of Christ and the Blesses Mother. He is believed to be the first painter of icons. He is the patron saint of artists and physicians.

Feast Day: October 18

Prayer card included.