Saint Bartholomew, also called Nathanael in the Gospel of John, was presented to Jesus by the apostle Philip. Sincere and straightforward, he received these words from the Lord: "Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is no guile". Having become an apostle, he courageously proclaimed the Gospel to the ends of the earth, and sealed his testimony with a cruel martyrdom. Patron saint of butchers, tanners and bookbinders, he is above all invoked as a model of transparency, fidelity and courage in the faith.
Powerful prayer to Saint Bartholomew
O Saint Bartholomew, faithful apostle of Christ, you who were chosen from among the Twelve to be a witness to the Lord's love, we come to you with confidence and hope. You who recognised in Jesus the Son of God and King of Israel, obtain for us the grace of a sincere faith without duplicity, always turned towards the light of truth.
Saint Bartholomew, you who travelled far and wide to bring the Good News, make us missionaries in our daily lives. Inspire our words with clarity and our actions with kindness, so that, through our witness, others may discover the joy of believing in Jesus.
Aright-hearted apostle, you who had neither guile nor lies, teach us simplicity and humility. Deliver us from pride, selfishness and hypocrisy. Make us authentic witnesses, capable of loving without calculation and serving without expecting anything in return.
St Bartholomew, courageous martyr, you who suffered in your body to remain faithful to Christ, support those who are persecuted today because of their faith. Give them strength and hope, and make us grow in solidarity with our suffering brothers and sisters.
You who offered your life to the end, obtain for us the grace of perseverance. When the cross of our trials becomes heavy, help us to bear it with courage, certain that victory belongs to God. Make our desire grow for heaven, where we will share eternal joy with you and all the saints.
O glorious apostle, intercede for our families, enlighten our hearts and present our prayers to the Father's throne. Help us to remain faithful to Christ every day, so that in our turn we may hear these words, "Behold a true disciple, in whom is no guile."
Saint Bartholomew, pray for us and keep us steadfast in the faith.
Amen.
