St. John the Evangelist

 

• Early Life & Call: John, son of Zebedee and Salome, was a Galilean fisherman and the younger brother of James the Great (another apostle). He and James were called by Jesus while mending their nets and immediately followed him, becoming disciples. John is believed to have been the youngest of the apostles, Close Relationship with Jesus: John, alongside Peter and James, belonged to Jesus' inner circle of apostles. He was known as the "disciple whom Jesus loved". He was present at significant moments like the Transfiguration, the raising of Jairus' daughter, and Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane. John was the only apostle present at Jesus' crucifixion, and Jesus entrusted Mary, his mother, to John's care.
• Ministry and Writings: After Jesus' ascension, John played a crucial role in the early church, particularly in Jerusalem and later in Ephesus (modern-day Turkey). Tradition states he founded numerous churches in Asia Minor. He is traditionally credited with authoring the Gospel of John, the three Letters (Epistles) of John, and the Book of Revelation. Though authorship is debated by modern scholars,  that John is the traditional author of these works.
• Later Life and Death: John was exiled to the island of Patmos during the reign of Emperor Domitian, where he received the visions recorded in the Book of Revelation. After Domitian's death, John returned to Ephesus and, according to tradition, died of old age around 100 AD, making him the only apostle not to suffer martyrdom.
• Legacy: St. John is remembered for his unwavering loyalty, his profound love for Jesus, and his emphasis on love in his writings. He is revered as a patron saint of authors, love, loyalty, and friendships. 

His symbol is the eagle representing Theology. His feast day is on December 27th. He wrote the 4th gospel. He stood at the foot of the Cross with Mary. Jesus entrusted Mary to John's care.