Saint Luke

St Luke History

The Observance of Saint Luke is a Christian holiday celebrated annually on October 18 to honor the life and works of Saint Luke the Evangelist. Saint Luke is one of the four authors of the Gospels in the New Testament, having written the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. He was also a physician, hence earning him the designation of the patron saint of doctors, surgeons, and artists, particularly painters. The saint's feast day is an opportunity for believers to reflect on the impact Saint Luke had on early Christianity and his role in spreading the faith around the world.

Saint Luke is believed to have been a close companion of Saint Paul, together traveling across ancient Europe and Asia during their missionary journeys. As the only Gospel writer believed to have been a Gentile, Saint Luke's works emphasize the universality of the Christian message, translated to a wide audience, including non-Jews. For Australians, Luke's Gospel has a unique resonance due to its focus on concern for the poor, social justice, and forgiveness, issues that are deeply entwined with the social fabric of Australian society. Moreover, the observance of Saint Luke has ecumenical significance within the Australian context, as his message of universal Christian love transcends denominational boundaries.

In Australia, the Observance of Saint Luke is commemorated through church services, prayers, and liturgical readings, including scripture passages from the Gospel of Luke. Further, congregations and faith-based organisations also hold events promoting medical missions, social outreach programs, and artistic expressions to honor the saint. The feast of Saint Luke is observed on October 18 every year, coinciding with the international celebration of this important figure in the Christian faith.