St. Matthias the Apostle
St. Matthias the Apostle was the twelfth apostle chosen after the Ascension of Jesus. His appointment served as the replacement for Judas, who betrayed Jesus with a kiss on the cheek. Saint Peter was charged with the task of choosing an apostle for this replacement. He had one requirement; someone who had been a disciple of Christ from the beginning of his ministry. It had to be someone who knew all Jesus had said and done, so he could be a witness of Christ.
Two men met this requirement and St. Matthias was chosen by casting lots. He joined then became the 12th Apostle and was with all the Apostles at the coming of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. St. Clement of Alexandria an early Christian Theologian noted that Matthias was chosen the same as other disciple, not because of what he already was but because of what he would become. Jesus foresaw the potential for all of His children, including us. As Matthias was welcomed as an Apostle, so too are we encouraged to accept newcomers with open arms.
Symbols associated with St. Matthias include a spear or lance. He is a patron of saints for those fighting alcoholism, small pox, reformed alcoholics, tailors and carpenters.
