About the Image:
Saint Luke, known as the author of the third Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles, is celebrated for his detailed narration of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the early Christian community. He is often recognized as a compassionate and inclusive evangelist, emphasizing Jesus' concern for the poor, the marginalized, and the outcast. Besides being a Gospel writer, Saint Luke is traditionally believed to have been a physician, which is reflected in the compassionate and healing tone of his writings. His feast day is observed on October 18, honoring his significant contributions to Christian literature and his enduring legacy in the Christian faith.
Saint Luke is often symbolized by an ox, which is one of the four living creatures described in the Book of Revelation, representing strength and sacrifice, traits attributed to Luke's portrayal of Jesus' sacrificial love and service. Additionally, Saint Luke is traditionally regarded as a painter, with several ancient Christian traditions attributing the first icon of the Virgin Mary to him. His symbol of a paintbrush alongside an ox encapsulates his dual legacy as a compassionate physician-evangelist and a patron of Christian art. Together, these symbols reflect Saint Luke's multifaceted contributions to Christian theology, liturgy, and artistic tradition, celebrated annually on his feast day, October 18.
