Bartholomew, Apostle
Bartholomew is one of the Twelve Apostles. Probably a close friend of Saint Philip and may also have the name Nathaniel.
Bartholomew’s name is always mentioned in the Gospels in connection with Philip, and it was Philip who brought Bartholomew to Jesus. Bartholomew May have written a gospel, now lost; it is mentioned in other writings of the time. He may have preached in Asia Minor, Ethiopia, India and Armenia; someone did, leaving behind assorted writings, and local tradition says it was Bartholomew.
His death is also a mystery. Some say he was beheaded. Tradition suggests he was flayed alive. In artwork he is shown holding his skin in one hand. Due to the nature of his martyrdom, Bartholomew is the patron saint of tanners, plasterers, tailors, leatherworkers, bookbinders, farmers, housepainters, butchers, and glove makers.
In today’s reading from John, we have the name Nathaniel as Bartholomew is not in the Gospel of John. The important thing to recognize is that when Nathaniel was invited, he did come and see.
There are so many times in our lives where we are invited, but we turn down just as many invitations. God’s invitations come to us through many people. It is learning to be sensitive to the calling of God. And when we sense we are being invited by God we must come and see what He has planned for us. Listen for your invitation today. You don’t want to miss it.
May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen