The Saints: St. Matthias

First Century / Feast - May 14

All that is known about Matthias comes from the New Testament story (Acts 1:15-26) of the Apostles choosing him to replace Judas. After proposing as candidates two who followed Jesus throughout his public life and saw him risen, the Apostles prayed for guidance, then cast lots between Joseph Barsabbas and Matthias. According to Acts 1:26, “... the lot fell upon Matthias, and he was counted with the eleven Apostles.” Later accounts of his preaching in Judea, Cappadocia (in Turkey) or Ethiopia and his martyrdom are uncertain.           © 2004 CNS