SAINT JOHN THE APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST


Image of Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist
Image of Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist

By Edward Matulanya 

Discover the life, teachings, and legacy of Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist according to the Roman Catholic Church. Explore his Gospel, letters, miracles, feast day, symbols, and lasting influence on Christian faith and theology.. Introduction to Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist

1. Biography of Saint John the Apostle

Saint John was one of Jesus Christ’s twelve apostles, traditionally called the “Beloved Disciple,” whose writings shaped Catholic understanding of Christ’s divinity and love (Catholic Encyclopedia, 1910; Britannica, 2025; Holy Bible, John 13:23).

1.1 The Life and Legacy of Saint John the Evangelist

His Gospel, letters, and Revelation emphasize love, belief, and eternal life, central themes in Catholic theology (The Catholic Voice, 2025). 

1.2 Reason for Saint John to be Called “The Beloved Disciple”

John’s unique closeness to Christ; present at the Last Supper and Crucifixion, earned him this title in Catholic tradition (Holy Bible, John 13:23; 19:26–27). 

2. Early Life and Background of Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist

Explore the early life and background of Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist, including his family, upbringing, and journey to becoming one of Jesus’ closest disciples.

2.1 Birth and Family of Saint John the Apostle

John was the son of Zebedee and Salome and brother to James, known for fishing on the Sea of Galilee (Britannica, 2025). 

2.2 Saint John’s Childhood and Upbringing in Galilee

His upbringing as a fisherman prepared him for a life of discipleship marked by diligence and trust in Jesus’ call (Britannica, 2025).

2.3 The Call of John from Fisherman to Apostle

Jesus called him to be “a fisher of men,” and John immediately left his nets to follow Him (Holy Bible, Matt. 4:19). 

3. Saint John as an Apostle

Learn about Saint John, the beloved Apostle of Jesus, known for his teachings, writings, and role in spreading Christianity. Discover his life, legacy, and impact on the early Church.

3.1 The Role of John Among the Twelve Apostles

John belonged to Jesus’ inner circle, witnessing critical events like the Transfiguration (Matt. 17:1–2). 

3.2 John’s Relationship with Peter and James

John and Peter were the first to reach the empty tomb after the Resurrection, showing their zeal for Christ (John 20:2–8). 

3.3 Key Events in John’s Apostolic Life

From Pentecost to missionary activity, John helped spread the Gospel after Christ’s Ascension, especially in Asia Minor (EWTN, 2025). 

4. Saint John the Evangelist

Discover the life and teachings of Saint John the Evangelist, the beloved disciple of Jesus, author of the Gospel of John, and a key figure in Christian faith and spirituality.

4.1 Writings Attributed to Saint John in the New Testament

The Catholic tradition attributes the following writing to Saint John the Apostle and Evengelist.

I. Gospel of John

II. First, Second, Third Letters of John

III. Book of Revelation

This collection is known as Johannine literature (Wikipedia, 2025). 

4.2 The Unique Features and Themes of the Gospel of John

John’s Gospel focuses on Jesus’ divinity and eternal life, distinct from the Synoptics, and was affirmed by early Church Fathers like Irenaeus (Catholic.com, n.d.).

4.3 The 1, 2, and 3 Letters of John 

These letters stress love, truth, and fellowship, warning against false teaching and encouraging authentic Christian living (My Catholic Life!, 2025; Holy Bible, 1 John 4:8). 

4.4 The Book of Revelation; John’s Vision and Prophecy

Tradition holds John received apocalyptic visions during exile on Patmos, encouraging faithful perseverance (Catholic Encyclopedia, 1910). 

5. Miracles and Ministry attributed to Saint John the Apostle and Evengelist 

Explore the miracles and ministry of Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist, highlighting his teachings, healing works, and impact on early Christianity.

5.1 Miracles Attributed to Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist in the Bible

John witnessed miracles with Jesus, including; healing the sick and the Resurrection of Lazarus, these miracles reinforcing faith in Christ’s power (Holy Bible, John 11:43–44). 

5.2 John’s Role in Early Church Miracles and Healing

After Pentecost, John healed a lame man at the Temple, demonstrating apostolic authority and divine power (Acts 3:1–10). 

5.3 John’s Evangelization in Asia Minor

Tradition places John in Ephesus, guiding and founding churches until his death (EWTN, 2025). 

6. Saint John the Apostle and Evengelist in Catholic Teachings

Discover the life and teachings of Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist in Catholic tradition. Explore his role as a disciple of Christ, author of the Gospel, and key figure in early Christianity.

6.1 Catholic Church’s View on Saint John the Apostle

Church tradition honors John as a model of love, loyalty, and theological insight (Catholic Encyclopedia, 1910). 

6.2 The Theology of Saint John’s Writings

His writings offer deep Christological insight on the Word, love, and the Holy Spirit, foundational in Catholic doctrine (Catholic Encyclopedia, 1910)

6.3 Feast Days of Saint John the Evangelist

The Roman Catholic feast day is December 27, celebrating his legacy and witness (EWTN, 2025; Feast of St. John, 2025). 

6.4 Saint John the Apostle and Evengelist as Patron Saint

He is traditionally invoked as patron of theologians, writers, and those devoted to Christian love and doctrine (Catholic Encyclopedia, 1910).

7. Saint John the Apostle and Evengelist, Devotion and Spirituality 

Explore the life and teachings of Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist. Discover devotion practices, spiritual insights, and guidance for deepening your faith.

7.1 Prayers and Novenas Dedicated to Saint John

Catholics pray for John’s intercession to grow in theological insight and spiritual love (The Catholic Voice, 2025; My Catholic Life!, 2025).

7.2 How Catholics Honor Saint John Today

The Church honor Saint John the Apostle and Evengelist through readings from his Gospel and letters. Also, feast day; Mass and liturgies commemorating his life. Furthermore, devotions and pilgrimages near Ephesus (My Catholic Life!, 2025). 

7.3 Spiritual Lessons from Saint John’s Life and writings 

His life is summarized by his repeated message  “love one another” which  summarizes the heart of Christian discipleship. 

8. Saint John’s Legacy and Influence

Discover Saint John’s legacy and enduring influence on Christianity. Explore his writings, teachings, and impact on faith, devotion, and spiritual life.

8.1 Saint John’s Impact on Early Christianity

Church Fathers like Irenaeus and Justin Martyr attest that John guided early churches and influenced doctrine deeply (EWTN, 2025).

8.2 Influence on Christian Theology and Christology

John’s Christological insights underpin Catholic understandings of the Trinity and eternal life (Catholic Encyclopedia, 1910).

8.3 Saint John in Church History and Councils

His Gospel and letters were affirmed in early canon lists and patristic writings as authoritative Christian Scripture. 

8.4 John’s Legacy in Modern Catholicism

His writings are central to Catholic liturgy, catechesis, and the liturgical calendar (Salve Maria Regina, 2025).

9. Iconography and Symbols of Saint John the Apostle and Evengelist 

Explore the iconography and symbols of Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist. Learn the meanings behind his depictions, sacred imagery, and spiritual significance.

9.1 How Saint John the Apostle is Depicted in Catholic Art

He is often portrayed with a quill, book, or eagle, representing theological heights and divine revelation (Catholic Encyclopedia, 1910).

9.2 Symbols of Saint John

Saint John the Apostle and Evengelist is depicted with Eagle which signifying theological vision. Also, chalice with serpent which signifying legend of poison turned away and scroll/book which signifying his writings (Catholic Encyclopedia, 1910). 

9.3 Famous Churches Dedicated to Saint John

Saint John the Apostle and Evengelist is dedicated to the Basilica of St. John Lateran (Rome) and historical sites near Ephesus marking his ministry. 

10. Saint John in Culture and Literature

Explore the influence of Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist in culture and literature, including Christian writings, poetry, sacred art, hymns, and theological reflections that shaped Roman Catholic tradition and Western civilization

10.1 Saint John in Christian Literature and Poetry

His writings inspired theological reflection, poetry, and meditations on love and God’s nature (The Catholic Voice, 2025).

10.2 Depictions of Saint John in Renaissance and Baroque Art

Artists often highlight his role as the “Beloved Disciple” in Last Supper scenes and Gospel imagery (The Catholic Voice, 2025).

10.3 Influence of Saint John on Christian Music and Hymns

Hymns echo his themes of divine love and spiritual light central to Catholic worship (The Catholic Voice, 2025).

11. Saint John’s Death and Burial

Learn about Saint John the Apostle’s death and burial according to Roman Catholic tradition, including his life in Ephesus, beliefs about his tomb, and why he is honored as the only apostle who died a natural death.

11.1 How Saint John the Apostle Lived in Ephesus

Tradition holds he lived to an advanced age, cared for Mary, and taught until his death (EWTN, 2025).

11.2 Catholic Traditions About Saint John’s Tomb

Ephesus is believed to contain his burial site and remains a place of pilgrimage (Britannica, 2025).

11.3 Legends and Miracles of His Later Life

Stories include surviving poisoning and commanding love as his final teaching (Catholic Encyclopedia, 1910).

12. Saint John and Eschatology

Discover Saint John the Apostle’s role in Christian eschatology through the Book of Revelation, exploring Catholic interpretations of his visions, end-times symbolism, and enduring messages of hope, faith, and God’s final victory.

12.1 Saint John’s Vision in the Book of Revelation

Revelation reveals Christ’s ultimate victory, consolation for persecuted Christians (The Catholic Voice, 2025).

12.2 Catholic Interpretation of John’s Apocalyptic Writings

The Church interprets Revelation symbolically and theologically for hope and perseverance (EWTN, 2025).

12.3 Lessons for Faith and Morality from Revelation

John’s vision reinforces trust in God’s plan, justice, and eternal life (The Catholic Voice, 2025).

References

Britannica. (2025). Saint John the Apostle. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-John-the-Apostle

Catholic Encyclopedia. (1910). St. John the Evangelist. http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08492a.htm

Catholic Encyclopedia. (1910). Gospel of St. John. http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08438a.htm

Catholic Answers Encyclopedia. (n.d.). Epistles of Saint John. https://www.catholic.com/encyclopedia/epistles-of-saint-john

EWTN. (2025). St. John the Evangelist Tradition. https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/st-john-the-evangelist-5109

Feast of St. John. (2025). Traditional Catholic Liturgy. https://www.salvemariaregina.info/SalveMariaRegina/SMR-190/John.htm

My Catholic Life!. (2025). Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist. https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/27-december-saint-john-the-apostle-and-evangelist-feast/

Catholic.com. (n.d.). Gospel of St. John. https://www.catholic.com/encyclopedia/john-gospel-of-saint

The Catholic Voice. (2025). Saint John the Evangelist Biography, Miracles, and Wisdom. https://www.thecatholicvoice.com/saints/saint-john-the-evangelist-biography-miracles-and-wisdom

Holy Bible, New American Bible, Revised Edition. (2011). United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.


Catholic Faith

Comments

Post a Comment

Please keep comments friendly and on-topic

Popular Posts

FAITH OF ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

Image
Image of Catholic Church at Vatican By Edward Matulanya Here are Meaning, believe, founder, sacraments, teaching source, Morals, source of faith, History and key teaching of Roman Catholic Church. 1. Meaning of Roman Catholic Church  The Roman Catholic Church means the universal Christian community under the leadership of the Bishop of Rome (the Pope). 2. Understand the Core Beliefs of the Roman Catholic Faith The Roman Catholic Church belief in one God in three persons ; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1997, §234; Matt. 28:19). Catholics hold that Jesus Christ is true God and true man, whose incarnation, death, and resurrection bring salvation to humanity (CCC, 1997, §§461–463; John 1:14). 3. Founder of Roman Catholic Church  The Church, founded by Christ on the apostles with the pope as Peter’s successor, is “the universal sacrament of salvation” (CCC, 1997, §774; Matt. 16:18–19). Salvation is a gift of grace received through faith ...
Read more

SACRED SCRIPTURE

Image
Image of Roman Catholic Holy Bible By Edward Matulanya  Discover Sacred Scripture, the Word of God, and how it shapes Catholic worship, daily life, and understanding of God’s revelation. Learn about the  meaning, development, Inspiration and Authority, and Role of Sacred Scripture According to the Roman Catholic Church. 1. Introduction to Sacred Scripture in the Roman Catholic Church Sacred Scripture, or the Bible, is the written Word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and forms a foundation for Catholic faith , morality, and worship. Sacred Scripture is inseparable from Sacred Tradition and the guidance of the Magisterium (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1993, §§81–83). Scripture is both divine and human, communicating truth through historical, cultural, and literary contexts (Dei Verbum, 1965, §§11–12). For e xample, r eciting Psalms during the Liturgy of the Hours (CCC, 1174). Also,  Abraham’s faith in God’s promise (Genesis 12–22, NAB) as a model of trust....
Read more

ONE GOD

Image
  One God  By Edward Matulanya  Here’s a clear explanation of One God according to the Roman Catholic Church, as explained by the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) and the Holy Bible. The Roman Catholic Church teaches that there is one, living, and true God, the Creator of all things, who is eternal, all-powerful, all-knowing, and present everywhere. God is one in essence (nature) but exists as a Trinity of Persons; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This mystery of one divine substance in three Persons does not divide God, but reveals His inner life of perfect unity and love. According to Catechism of the Catholic Church, (CCC 200) “There is but one God: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, a Trinity of one substance.” Also, (CCC 201) “To Israel, his chosen, God revealed himself as the only One: ‘Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD…’ (Dt 6:4).”Further more, (CCC 253) “The Trinity is One. We do not confess three Gods, but one God in three Persons, the ‘consu...
Read more

PRAYERS IN ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

Image
Image of a person praying  By Edward Matulanya  Here are Meaning, purpose, types,  Powers, and significance of Prayers in the Roman Catholic Church. 1. What Is Prayer in the Roman Catholic Church? The Catholic Church teaches that, prayer is "the raising of one’s mind and heart to God" (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1997, para. 2559). For example, Speaking to God about your day. 2. The Purpose of Prayer in Catholic Spiritual Life Prayer helps Catholics grow in relationship with God , receive grace , and discern His will (CCC, 1997, para. 2561–2565). For e xample, asking God for guidance before making a tough choice. 3. Types of Prayer Taught by the Catholic Church The Church identifies blessing, adoration, petition, intercession, thanksgiving, and praise as core forms of prayers (CCC, 1997, para. 2626–2643). For e xample, Praying for a friend's health (intercession). I. Prayer of Blessing  A prayer of blessing is when God’s goodness is acknowledged and when ...
Read more

TWELVE APOSTLES OF JESUS

Image
  Image of Jesus Christ with twelve apostles at last feast By Edward Matulanya Here are twelve apostles chosen by Jesus, celebration of Eucharist, their mission, their succession, their liturgical Celebration a summary of their lives.  The Catholic Church teaches that Jesus personally chose and appointed the Twelve to share in His mission and to lay the foundation of the Church. 1. Twelve apostles chosen by Jesus  Jesus called his disciples, and chose twelve of them, whom he also named apostles (Luke 6:13, NABRE). They were to be with Him, to preach, and to have authority to drive out demons (Mark 3:13-19). 2. Celebration of Eucharist At the Last Supper He conferred on them a share in His priesthood and the command to celebrate the Eucharist (Luke 22:19–20; Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1994/2019, §§859–860). Catholics hold that this apostolic ministry continues through apostolic succession, with bishops as the successors of the apostles (CCC §§861–862). 3. The...
Read more

SALVATION

Image
Image of Jesus on the cross By Edward Matulanya  Here are meaning, Biblical Foundations, Early Church Understanding, Medieval Development, Modern Developments, Process, and  Sacraments as Means  of Salvation According to the Roman Catholic Church Meaning of Salvation Salvation, in Roman Catholic theology, refers to the deliverance from sin and union with God through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. It is a lifelong process involving divine grace, human freedom, and participation in the sacraments (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1992, §§1987–2029). Catholic soteriology emphasizes both God’s initiative and human cooperation within a framework rooted in Scripture and developed through centuries of theological reflection (Denzinger, 2012). Biblical Foundations Catholic teaching holds that salvation is grounded in both Scripture and Tradition . Core biblical passages include John 3:16, Ephesians 2:8–10, James 2:24, and Philippians 2:12–13. These texts demonstrat...
Read more

DEVOTION

Image
  Devotion of Jesus By Edward Matulanya   Here are Meaning, history, theology, role and significance of Devotion in the Roman Catholic Church. 1. Meaning of Devotion In Roman Catholic theology, devotion refers to the loving, voluntary dedication of one’s heart, mind, and actions to God . The term comes from the Latin devotus, meaning “consecrated” or “set apart” (Aquinas, Summa Theologiae, II-II, Q.82). The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes devotion as an expression of charity love that moves the believer to prayer and worship (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1997, §2098). > Devotion is not mere emotion; it is the steady offering of oneself to God. Aspect of Devotion Devotion includes Faith (belief in God),  Love (desire to be united with God), and  Practice (acts of prayer, charity, and virtue). 2. Historical Development Early Church (1st–4th c.) Early Christians focused their devotion on Sacred Scripture , the Eucharist , and prayer, often vener...
Read more

SAINT JOSEPH OF CUPERTINO

Image
Saint Joseph of Cupertino  By Edward Matulanya Early life of Saint Joseph of Cupertino St. Joseph of Cupertino was born June 17, 1603, in Cupertino, Apulia (southern Italy). Orphaned before birth and raised in poverty, he struggled with learning and was considered slow by his peers. After repeated rejections from religious communities, he was eventually accepted as a servant by the Conventual Franciscans and later admitted as a friar. Vocational life of Saint Joseph of Cupertino  Despite his lack of education, Joseph was ordained a priest in 1628 after a providentially simple examination. He became famous for extraordinary mystical phenomena, especially levitation during ecstatic prayer. These events attracted large crowds and even the attention of the Inquisition, though he was never condemned. Because the public excitement disrupted community life, Joseph spent much of his later years in seclusion, devoted to humility and prayer. He died on September 18, 1663, in Osimo, Ital...
Read more

GRACE

Image
The Spirit descends on Jesus at His baptism By Edward Matulanya  Here are meaning, functions,types, theology, Aspects and historical development of Grace. 1. Historical Development of the Concept of Grace Biblical Foundations The concept of grace (Latin: gratia; Greek: charis) is central to both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, grace denotes God’s steadfast love and favor toward Israel despite their unworthiness (Exodus 33:19; Psalm 103:8–12). In the New Testament, grace is fully revealed in Jesus Christ. St. Paul emphasizes grace as a divine gift that saves humanity apart from works of the law (Romans 3:24; Ephesians 2:8–9; Titus 3:7). Early Church Fathers Early theologians reflected on grace as the divine initiative in salvation. St. Irenaeus (ca. 130–202) saw salvation as the restoration of divine likeness through God’s gratuitous gift. Origen (ca. 184–253) and Clement of Alexandria (ca. 150–215) emphasized synergy between divine grace and human free will. The g...
Read more

SACRAMENT OF EUCHARIST

Image
  Sacrament of Eucharist By Edward Matulanya  Meaning of Sacrament of Eucharist  The Eucharist, also called Holy Communion, is the central sacrament of the Catholic Church, often referred to as the “source and summit of the Christian life” (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1994, §1324). It is both a sacrament of Christ’s real presence and the memorial of His sacrifice, making present the Paschal Mystery for the faithful. Biblical Foundations of Sacrament of Eucharist  The Eucharist has deep roots in both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, Melchizedek’s offering of bread and wine (Genesis 14:18), the Passover sacrifice (Exodus 12), and manna in the desert (Exodus 16) foreshadow the Eucharistic mystery. In the New Testament, the Last Supper narratives (Matthew 26:26–29; Mark 14:22–25; Luke 22:14–20; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26) provide the institution of the Eucharist, where Jesus declares the bread and wine to be His Body and Blood. John’s Gospel adds...
Read more