Saint Luke, first century

October 18

Saint Luke was a follower of Jesus. He learned about Jesus from Saint Paul. He probably also talked to the Apostles and Mary. He wrote down their stories about Jesus. These stories became the Gospel according to Luke. In this Gospel, Luke talks about Jesus’ birth. He tells about how Jesus cared for people who were poor, sick, and lonely. Luke also traveled with Saint Paul. He wrote down the stories of their trips in another book of the Bible. This book is called The Acts of the Apostles. Luke was also a doctor and a painter.

Saint Luke’s writings suggest that he had great respect for Mary and for all women. He remained with his friend Saint Paul until Paul’s death. He was a doctor, and is the patron Saint of doctors. He is also the patron of painters, because it is believed that he painted a picture of the Virgin Mary.

Discuss: What is your favorite story about Jesus?

Activity
Scripture Stories
Verbal/Linguistic, Visual/Spatial

Explain that Saint Luke is known as “the storyteller” because he was so good at telling stories about Jesus and the early Church.

• Choose a story from the Gospel of Luke, such as the Birth of Jesus, the Prodigal Son, the Good Samaritan, or Zacchaeus the Tax Collector.
• Read aloud the Scripture story.
• Ask your child to draw a scene from the Bible story. Then have him/her share it with and explain it to other family members.