Today we commemorate Matthias, Apostle. The Apostle Matthias, according to the Acts of the Apostles, was chosen by lot to replace Judas Iscariot after his betrayal of Jesus and subsequent death. His calling as an apostle was unique, in that he was not chosen personally by Jesus who had already ascended into Heaven, but made before the descent of the Holy Spirit.
The Gospel Reading for his feast is Luke 9: 1-6, where “Jesus Sends out the Twelve.” The reading is as follows: “9 When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. 3 He told them: “Take nothing for the journey—no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra shirt. 4 Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. 5 If people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” 6 So they set out and went from village to village, proclaiming the good news and healing people everywhere.” (from Bible GateWay).
