St. Andrew

St Andrew, Apostle and Martyr for Christ

Humor:

You can imagine being there at the shores of Galilee, and being in the shoes (sandals) of Father Zebedee, and seeing his sons following Christ, and he's probably thinking to himself: “There's something FISHY going on here.” But he has to quickly learn to let his sons follow Christ, and not to be SHELLFISH.

Short Bio:

St. Andrew is the brother of Simon Peter. He is known as being the first person called to be a disciple of Christ. Immediately, he shared the good news with others: “We have found the Messiah.” After Pentecost, St. Andrew traveled to Ukraine, Russia, and Greece to proclaim the Gospel. St Andrew is remembered as someone who died on an X shaped cross. Christ died on a vertical cross. St. Peter died being crucified upside down. St. Andrew died in an X shaped cross. Andrew's name is of Greek Orgin which means bravery or courage. Like his brother Peter, Andrew was a fisherman, and responded quickly to Christ's invitation and devoted his life to serving Christ.

Reflections for today:

Jesus called the disciples, not when they were just sitting around doing nothing. He didn’t call them at a time when it was convenient. Jesus called them when they were busy. They were busy working, and providing for their family. They were busy preparing their nets and boats, perhaps for their next fishing expedition. We all have busy lives. But it's no excuse to make Christ and his kingdom our priority. He calls us to serve in his kingdom (Church). Do you ever make excuses to not serve Christ and His Kingdom?

When the fisherman followed Jesus, it is said that they left their nets and boats, and their Father, and followed the Lord. In other words, they left something behind. What are some of the things that you can leave behind, and let go of, in order to follow Christ?

Through the intercession of St. Andrew, may the Lord bless you and keep you safe.