- 17 October, 2026
Rome, 18 October 2026: How can words inspire generations of people to discover the love and mercy of Jesus Christ? Saint Luke the Evangelist, traditionally identified as the author of the third Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles, shared the story of Christ with remarkable compassion. Remembered as a physician and a faithful companion of Saint Paul, Luke highlighted God’s concern for the poor, the forgotten and those seeking forgiveness. His writings continue to guide Christians towards a deeper understanding of the Gospel.
Feast Day: 18 October
Born: Traditionally associated with Antioch in Syria; exact date unknown
Died: Date and circumstances uncertain; early traditions differ
Known For: The Gospel according to Luke, the Acts of the Apostles and his companionship with Saint Paul
Biblical Title: Evangelist and traditionally recognised as a physician
Patronage: Physicians, surgeons and artists.
Little is known about Saint Luke’s early life. Saint Paul refers to him as “the beloved physician” in his Letter to the Colossians (Colossians 4:14). Early Christian tradition identifies Luke as a Gentile from Antioch, although details of his background cannot be confirmed with certainty.
Luke became a close companion of Saint Paul during his missionary journeys. The Acts of the Apostles includes passages written in the first-person plural, suggesting the author was present for some of the events described. Paul also mentions Luke in his letters, including a moving reference in which he says that Luke alone remains with him (2 Timothy 4:11).
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Saint Luke’s Gospel is especially known for its emphasis on God’s mercy and care for people on the margins of society. It includes beloved teachings of Jesus, such as the parable of the Good Samaritan and the story of the Prodigal Son.
Through these accounts, Luke shows that love of neighbour must cross social and cultural boundaries. He also highlights Jesus’ concern for the poor, women, sinners and those often overlooked by society. His Gospel invites readers to welcome forgiveness, practise generosity and recognise the dignity of every person.
Alongside his Gospel, Luke is traditionally credited with writing the Acts of the Apostles. This book describes the growth of the early Christian community after the Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus. It recounts the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the preaching of the Apostles and the spread of the Gospel beyond Jerusalem.
Acts also follows Saint Paul’s missionary work, showing how the Christian message reached diverse communities. Together, Luke’s two books offer a sweeping account of Jesus’ ministry and the continuing mission of the Church.
Tradition associates Saint Luke with medicine and, in later Christian art, with painting. Although the stories that he painted portraits of the Virgin Mary cannot be established as historical fact, artists have long honoured him as their patron.
The circumstances of his death remain uncertain, and traditions differ over whether he died peacefully or as a martyr. Nevertheless, the Church remembers him as a faithful evangelist whose writings have shaped Christian prayer, teaching and worship for centuries.
Saint Luke encourages Catholics to share the Gospel with compassion, stand beside people who are suffering and remain faithful in service. His writings remind believers that God’s mercy is offered to all who turn to Him.
Saint Luke’s message remains deeply relevant in a world marked by division and inequality. His Gospel calls Christians to choose compassion over judgement and to make room for the poor, the vulnerable and those seeking a new beginning.
Saint Luke the Evangelist, pray for us!
To know about more saints and Catholic feast days, please visit the spiritual section.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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