Today the church celebrates The Feast of Saint Matthew, apostle and evangelist. His name is ascribed to the second gospel written, although when we name the Gospels, we named them Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Almost every scripture scholar worth his or her salt would say that Mark’s gospel is by far the oldest, and that Matthews came after it. So, let us pray.

O God, who with untold mercy were pleased to choose as an apostle Saint Matthew, the tax collector. Grant that, sustained by his example and intercession, we may merit to hold firm in following You, through our Lord, Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit. One God forever and ever. Amen.