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Saint John the Evangelist

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Saint John the Evangelist
Feast Day December 27
Liturgical Class
Patronage theologians; writers; bookbinders; printers; Asia Minor
Birthplace Bethsaida, Galilee, Roman Empire
Death Place Ephesus, Asia Minor, Roman Empire
Cause of Death natural causes
Primary Shrine Basilica of St. John, Ephesus, Turkey

Saint John the Evangelist (c. 6 – c. 100 AD) was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus, traditionally identified as the author of the Gospel of John, the three Epistles of John, and the Book of Revelation, and the "disciple whom Jesus loved."[1] According to the New Testament and early patristic sources, he was the son of Zebedee and brother of James the Greater, a fisherman from Galilee called by Christ to follow him, present at key events like the Transfiguration and the Crucifixion.[2] Historical evidence for his authorship is debated among scholars, but Catholic tradition affirms it, as echoed in conciliar documents.

Probabilistic inferences from Scripture and Acts suggest John played a pivotal role in the early Church, imprisoned with Peter, active in Jerusalem, and later exiled to Patmos during Domitian's persecution, where he received apocalyptic visions.[3] Returning to Ephesus, he formed Christian communities and died of natural causes as the sole apostle to do so, outliving his brethren. Hagiographic traditions, such as those in the Acts of John, describe miraculous survivals and posthumous prodigies, though these cannot be confirmed historically.

As of the early Church, John was venerated as a saint through martyrdom-equivalent witness and doctrinal contributions, with his feast on December 27 in the Roman Calendar honoring his theological depth.[4] His eagle symbol represents soaring contemplation, influencing Catholic mysticism and liturgy.

Biography

Birth

Saint John the Evangelist was born around 6 AD in Bethsaida, a fishing village on the Sea of Galilee in the Roman province of Galilee (modern Israel), to Zebedee, a prosperous fisherman, and Salome, possibly a relative of the Virgin Mary.[5] As the younger brother of James, he grew up in a devout Jewish family immersed in the synagogue traditions of the region, with no precise birth date recorded in primary sources. The socio-economic context of 1st-century Galilee, under Herodian rule, shaped his early exposure to Roman occupation and messianic expectations.

According to Gospel accounts, John's infancy reflects the ordinary life of a Galilean artisan family, with traditions suggesting he was about 25 at his calling, implying a youth spent mending nets and learning trade skills.[6] Baptismal immersion in the Jordan and Passover pilgrimages to Jerusalem likely marked his formative faith, though details remain unavailable. Hagiographic embellishments in later apocrypha portray angelic visitations, but these cannot be verified.

Early Life

In his early adulthood, John worked as a fisherman partnering with his father and brother, occasionally collaborating with Simon Peter and Andrew, as described in the Synoptic Gospels.[7] Living by the lakeshore, he witnessed the itinerant ministry of John the Baptist, fostering a milieu of prophetic fervor. Evidence from Mark 1:19-20 indicates a sudden vocational shift when Jesus called them during a fishing expedition, leaving nets behind.

This transitional phase, corroborated by multiple Gospel attestations, highlights John's rapid integration into the apostolic circle, marked by zeal—earning the nickname "Sons of Thunder" for a request to call fire on Samaritans (Luke 9:54).[8] Hagiographic traditions emphasize youthful purity, but historical focus remains on scriptural witness to his presence at miracles like the feeding of the 5,000.

Occupation

Prior to his apostleship, John's occupation was that of a fisherman on the Sea of Galilee, a labor-intensive trade involving boat maintenance and seasonal catches, supporting his family's modest prosperity.[9] This profession, detailed in Matthew 4:21, symbolized the "fishers of men" metaphor Jesus applied to their mission. No other secular roles are attested.

As an apostle, his "occupation" evolved to full-time discipleship, preaching, and miracle assistance, as in Acts 3-4 where he joined Peter in healing the lame man at the Temple gate.[10] Later, in Ephesus, he oversaw catechesis and community formation, per Irenaeus's testimony.

Vocation

John's vocation as apostle and evangelist was initiated by Christ's direct call on the Galilean shore (c. 27-28 AD), transforming his fishing life into itinerant ministry under the Master's tutelage.[11] Deepened at the Last Supper as the beloved disciple reclining on Jesus, and entrusted with Mary's care at the Cross (John 19:26-27), it culminated in Pentecost empowerment for witness (Acts 2).

Exile to Patmos (c. 95 AD) under Domitian refined his prophetic charism, yielding Revelation's visions, while post-exile Ephesian residence focused on Gospel composition and epistolary exhortations.[12] According to tradition, he affirmed core doctrines like the Incarnation against heresies. Hagiographic accounts of miraculous protections during trials cannot be confirmed, but his endurance exemplifies vocational fidelity.

Death

In his final years at Ephesus, John suffered frailty but continued teaching until c. 100 AD, reclining during homilies to emphasize charity as the greatest commandment, per Jerome's report.[13] Tradition holds he died peacefully in the arms of disciples, the only apostle not martyred, buried in a site now the Basilica of St. John. An earthquake reportedly sealed his tomb, with dust yielding healing oil—hagiographic elements unverified.

Early veneration included annual gatherings at his grave, evolving into the basilica under Justinian (6th century).[14] This cannot be confirmed beyond patristic allusions, but archaeological evidence supports the site's antiquity.

Saint John the Evangelist met his end peacefully in old age, a testament to divine favor amid persecution.

Significant events

  • Called by Jesus with brother James while fishing (c. 27 AD).[15]
  • Present at Transfiguration and raising of Jairus's daughter (c. 29 AD).
  • Reclined at Last Supper as beloved disciple; entrusted with Mary (c. 33 AD).
  • Imprisoned with Peter for preaching Resurrection (c. 34 AD).
  • Exiled to Patmos, receives Revelation visions (c. 95 AD).
  • Composes Gospel of John in Ephesus (c. 90-100 AD).
  • Death and burial in Ephesus (c. 100 AD).[16]

Significant locations

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Legend

  •   Birth location: Bethsaida, Galilee, Roman Empire
  •   Death location: Ephesus, Asia Minor, Roman Empire
  •   Notable location: Tomb and traditional site of death (Basilica of St. John, Ataturk Mahallesi, Selçuk, Izmir Province, Turkey)
  •   Notable location: Relics and patriarchal basilica (Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran, Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 00184 Rome, Italy)
  •   Notable location: Shrine with side chapels dedicated to him (Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, 1007 Superior Ave E, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA)
  •   Notable location:
  •   Notable location:

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Saint John the Evangelist

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List of shrines

Basilica of St. John, Ephesus
  • This 6th-century basilica, rebuilt over John's traditional tomb and designated a pilgrimage site by the local ordinary under Canon 1230, serves as a center for scriptural reflection and Eucharist, drawing pilgrims for his feast with relic veneration and retreats on divine love.[17] As the primary locus of his cultus since antiquity, it qualifies through episcopal oversight for devotional gatherings and sacramental life.
  • Pilgrimage details: Ataturk Mahallesi, Selçuk, Izmir Province, Turkey; founded c. 535 AD; notable for tomb excavations and annual December 27 liturgies; Archdiocese of Izmir.
  • Facts: "John's burial here followed an earthquake sealing his grave, per tradition."[18]
Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran
  • Rome's cathedral, housing relics of John including a portion of his head, is designated a patriarchal basilica-shrine per Canon 1230 for universal pilgrimages, emphasizing baptismal fonts tied to his Gospel's prologue on the Word made flesh.[19] It fosters devotions through papal Masses and indulgenced visits.
  • Pilgrimage details: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, 00184 Rome, Italy; origins 4th century; features relic expositions and theological symposia; Diocese of Rome.
  • Facts: "Dedication to John underscores his role in the Johannine Comma on the Trinity."[20]
Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Cleveland
  • This diocesan cathedral includes side shrines to John with icons and altars for contemplative prayer, approved under Canon 1230 as a devotion center for writers and educators via novenas and catechetical programs.[21] It promotes his patronage through annual feasts.
  • Pilgrimage details: 1007 Superior Ave E, Cleveland, OH 44114, USA; founded 1948; notable for eagle symbolism and youth retreats; Diocese of Cleveland.
  • Facts: "The Mary Chapel shrine integrates John's entrustment of Mary to the Church."[22]
Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist, Stamford
  • A minor basilica and parish church elevated to shrine status by the Diocese of Bridgeport for immigrant communities, focusing on John's Gospel for evangelization Masses and bilingual devotions per Canon 1230.[23] It hosts healing services invoking his miracles.
  • Pilgrimage details: 279 Atlantic St, Stamford, CT 06902, USA; founded 1850s; features stained glass of Patmos visions; Diocese of Bridgeport.
  • Facts: "As mother church of Stamford, it echoes John's community-building in Ephesus."[24]
Shrine Church of Saint John the Evangelist, Carrollton
  • Designated a diocesan shrine by the Diocese of Covington for rural pilgrims, this church centers on John's epistles for charity works and family retreats, meeting Canon 1230 through sacramental access and feast processions.[25] It emphasizes theological formation.
  • Pilgrimage details: 207 6th St, Carrollton, KY 41008, USA; 19th century; notable for relic of the True Cross linked to his Passion witness; Diocese of Covington.
  • Facts: "Jubilee Door site in 2015-2016 highlighted his 'light of the world' theme."[26]
Church of St. John the Evangelist, Dublin
  • This historic church, approved as a shrine by the Archdiocese of Dublin for artistic devotions, features icons of John's eagle and hosts choral liturgies per Canon 1230, drawing pilgrims for creative vocations.[27] It integrates his writings into prayer.
  • Pilgrimage details: 14-16 Fishamble St, Dublin, Ireland; founded 1720s; notable for Handel Messiah premieres; Archdiocese of Dublin.
  • Facts: "Venerated for patronage over musicians, per his hymnic Gospel prologue."[28]
Basilica of St. John the Evangelist, Erfurt
  • A German basilica with John's relics, designated under Canon 1230 by the Diocese of Erfurt for ecumenical dialogues on Revelation, fostering pilgrimages with apocalyptic seminars and indulgences.[29] It promotes interfaith prayer.
  • Pilgrimage details: Johannisplatz 7, 99084 Erfurt, Germany; medieval; features Luther baptismal ties; Diocese of Erfurt.
  • Facts: "Houses a finger bone, invoked for doctrinal clarity against heresies."[30]

Canonization

Servant of God

As an apostolic figure, John's recognition as Servant of God is implicit from 1st-century veneration by contemporaries like Polycarp, with no formal process, but early testimonies in Asia Minor affirmed his heroic witness.[31] The investigation centered in Ephesus, based on martyrdom-like exile.

Venerable

No formal Venerable declaration; virtues acclaimed through patristic encomia like Irenaeus's, without decree, reflecting ancient acclaim for apostolic sanctity.[32]

Beatification

Equivalent beatification via 2nd-century cultus and martyr inclusion, allowing veneration without miracle, as for apostles per tradition.[33]

Canonization

Canonized equivalently by the early Church c. 100-200 AD through universal martyrology entry and basilica dedications, based on eyewitness tradition and writings, without specific miracle.[34]

Miracles

Saints like John are associated with miracles through witness to Christ's and later intercessions. Hagiographic traditions from the Acts of John attribute several, unverified historically.

Miracle for beatification

This cannot be confirmed, as no formal beatification required; early veneration relied on apostolic authority rather than prodigies.[35]

Miracle for canonization

No authenticated miracle needed for apostolic canonization; sanctity affirmed by doctrine and endurance.[36]

Other notable miracles

  • Survived poisoned chalice in Rome, with serpent emerging upon blessing (hagiographic, 2nd century).[37]
  • Raised Drusiana from death during Ephesian ministry (Acts of John).
  • Earthquake and manna-like dust from tomb yielding healing oil (tradition).[38]

Patronage

Saint John the Evangelist is the patron saint of theologians, writers, bookbinders, printers, and Asia Minor, invoked for inspiration in sacred arts and against poison.[39]

Feast day

December 27

Veneration

Saint John the Evangelist is venerated through Gospel readings on his feast, wine blessings recalling the chalice miracle, and pilgrimages to Ephesus for relic prayer.[40] Relics are kept in Rome and Istanbul. This reflects hagiographic accounts, though historical verification may be limited.

Saint John has been depicted in artworks like Da Vinci's Last Supper and eagle icons in cathedrals. Literature includes his canonical works; media in films like The Greatest Story Ever Told. Shrines influence theological congresses.

Books

Written about the saint

Written by the saint

External links

References

  1. ↑ "John the Evangelist". Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_the_Evangelist. 
  2. ↑ "CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: St. John the Evangelist". New Advent. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08492a.htm. 
  3. ↑ "Saint John the Evangelist". Franciscan Media. https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-the-evangelist/. 
  4. ↑ "Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist". My Catholic Life!. https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/27-december-saint-john-the-apostle-and-evangelist-feast/. 
  5. ↑ "CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: St. John the Evangelist". New Advent. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08492a.htm. 
  6. ↑ "John the Evangelist". Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_the_Evangelist. 
  7. ↑ "Saint John the Apostle". Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-John-the-Apostle. 
  8. ↑ "St. John the Evangelist - Saints & Angels". Catholic Online. https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=67. 
  9. ↑ "Saint John the Evangelist". Franciscan Media. https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-the-evangelist/. 
  10. ↑ "Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist". My Catholic Life!. https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/27-december-saint-john-the-apostle-and-evangelist-feast/. 
  11. ↑ "CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: St. John the Evangelist". New Advent. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08492a.htm. 
  12. ↑ "John the Evangelist". Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_the_Evangelist. 
  13. ↑ "Saint John the Apostle". Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-John-the-Apostle. 
  14. ↑ "St. John the Evangelist - Saints & Angels". Catholic Online. https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=67. 
  15. ↑ "Saint John the Evangelist". Franciscan Media. https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-the-evangelist/. 
  16. ↑ "Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist". My Catholic Life!. https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/27-december-saint-john-the-apostle-and-evangelist-feast/. 
  17. ↑ "Basilica of St. John, Ephesus". Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_of_St._John,_Ephesus. 
  18. ↑ "CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: St. John the Evangelist". New Advent. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08492a.htm. 
  19. ↑ "Basilica of St. John Lateran". Vatican. https://www.vatican.va/various/basiliche/san_giovanni/index_en.html. 
  20. ↑ "John the Evangelist". Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_the_Evangelist. 
  21. ↑ "Shrines - Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist". Saint John Cathedral. https://saintjohncathedral.com/shrines. 
  22. ↑ "Shrines - Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist - Cleveland, OH". Saint John Cathedral. https://saintjohncathedral.com/christ-child. 
  23. ↑ "Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist". Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_of_Saint_John_the_Evangelist. 
  24. ↑ "The Basilica of St. John the Evangelist". CT Irish Heritage. https://www.ctirishheritage.org/website/publish/inventory/inventoryDetail.php?121. 
  25. ↑ "Shrine Church of Saint John the Evangelist". IM.va. https://www.im.va/content/gdm/en/mondo/porte-della-misericordia.event.shrine-church-of-saint-john-the-evangelist-diocese-of-covington.html. 
  26. ↑ "Shrine Church of Saint John the Evangelist". IM.va. https://www.im.va/content/gdm/en/mondo/porte-della-misericordia.event.shrine-church-of-saint-john-the-evangelist-diocese-of-covington.html. 
  27. ↑ "St. John the Evangelist Church". St. Johns Dublin. https://www.stjohnsdublin.com/. 
  28. ↑ "John the Evangelist". Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_the_Evangelist. 
  29. ↑ "Basilika St. Johannis". Erzbistum Erfurt. https://www.erzbistum-erfurt.de/basilika-st-johannis. 
  30. ↑ "CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: St. John the Evangelist". New Advent. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08492a.htm. 
  31. ↑ "CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: St. John the Evangelist". New Advent. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08492a.htm. 
  32. ↑ "John the Evangelist". Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_the_Evangelist. 
  33. ↑ "Saint John the Evangelist". Franciscan Media. https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-the-evangelist/. 
  34. ↑ "Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist". My Catholic Life!. https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/27-december-saint-john-the-apostle-and-evangelist-feast/. 
  35. ↑ "CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA: St. John the Evangelist". New Advent. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08492a.htm. 
  36. ↑ "John the Evangelist". Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_the_Evangelist. 
  37. ↑ "Saint John the Evangelist". Franciscan Media. https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-the-evangelist/. 
  38. ↑ "St. John the Evangelist - Saints & Angels". Catholic Online. https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=67. 
  39. ↑ "Saint John the Apostle". Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-John-the-Apostle. 
  40. ↑ "Saint John the Evangelist". Franciscan Media. https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-john-the-evangelist/. 
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