Saint Bartholomew: The Apostle of India, Persia, and Armenia

Introduction

Saint Bartholomew, also known as Nathanael, was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He is believed to have spread the gospel throughout India, Persia, and Armenia, eventually becoming a martyr for his faith.

Early Life and Calling

Born in Cana of Galilee, Bartholomew was a devout Jew who studied the Torah diligently. When Jesus called out to him, asking him to follow, Bartholomew was initially hesitant. However, after Jesus revealed his true identity as the Son of God, Bartholomew immediately became a disciple.

Missionary Journeys

Bartholomew played a significant role in Jesus’ ministry, witnessing many of his miracles and teachings. After the resurrection of Jesus, Bartholomew embarked on missionary journeys, traveling extensively throughout the Eastern world.

India

Tradition holds that Bartholomew traveled to India and preached the gospel in the region known as Malabar. He is believed to have established several churches and converted many Hindus to Christianity.

Persia

Bartholomew’s missionary work extended to Persia (modern-day Iran), where he is said to have converted the king and many citizens. However, his success drew the ire of Zoroastrian priests, who ultimately led to his martyrdom.

Armenia

Bartholomew also visited Armenia, where he is credited with introducing Christianity to the kingdom. He is revered as one of the patron saints of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Martyrdom

According to legend, Bartholomew was flayed alive in Derbend, Persia, around 68 AD. His skin was then filled with straw and used as a scarecrow in a vineyard. Despite the gruesome nature of his death, Bartholomew remained steadfast in his faith.

Biblical Accounts

Bartholomew is mentioned in several passages of the Bible:

• In the Gospel of John, Bartholomew is identified as one of the disciples who witnessed Jesus walking on water (John 6:7-15).
• In the Acts of the Apostles, Bartholomew is listed as one of the apostles present at the Pentecost (Acts 1:13).

Legacy and Veneration

Saint Bartholomew is celebrated as a martyr and missionary saint in both the Eastern and Western Christian traditions. He is often depicted in art holding his own skin, a symbol of his martyrdom.

Churches and cathedrals dedicated to Saint Bartholomew can be found around the world, including:

• St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, New York City
• St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, Frankfurt, Germany
• Basilica of San Bartolomeo all’Isola, Rome, Italy

Prayer to Saint Bartholomew

O Saint Bartholomew, intrepid apostle,
You preached the Gospel with fervor and zeal,
Converting countless souls to the faith.
In your martyrdom, you showed unwavering courage,
Bearing witness to the power of Christ’s love.

Pray for us, that we may have the same missionary spirit,
To spread the Good News far and wide,
To proclaim the truth of the Gospel,
And to witness to the love of Jesus Christ.

Amen.

Additional Information

• Catholic Encyclopedia on Saint Bartholomew
• Orthodox Church of America on Saint Bartholomew
• Armenian Apostolic Church on Saint Bartholomew