1. Short Bio:

Saint Luke is traditionally believed to be a Greek physician from Antioch.

He is one of the Four Evangelists, credited with writing the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles in the New Testament.

Luke was a companion of the Apostle Paul and traveled with him on some of his missionary journeys.

2. Medical Connection & Historical Context:

• Saint Luke's background as a physician gives a unique color to his Gospel. He brings an attentive and detailed eye to the many healings performed by Jesus. His descriptions often possess a depth that might reflect his medical training. 
• His profession would have made him particularly empathetic to the suffering and marginalized, and this is reflected in his writings. The Gospel of Luke is replete with stories and parables that emphasize the dignity, value, and inclusion of those who were often left on the periphery of society, such as women, the poor, tax collectors, and sinners.
• Luke's Gospel stands out for its inclusion of women in the narrative. He frequently mentions women as disciples of Jesus, providing them with a more substantial role in his accounts than the other Gospels. Notable examples include the sisters Mary and Martha and the story of the sinful woman who anointed Jesus' feet.
• He emphasizes Jesus' outreach and care for the socially marginalized. The Gospel highlights stories such as the Good Samaritan, illustrating that neighborly love isn't restricted by ethnic or religious boundaries; and the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus, underscoring the reversal of fortunes in the afterlife due to earthly actions and attitudes toward the poor.
• The historical context in which Luke was writing was one of socio-economic disparity, with a vast gap between the rich and the poor, the powerful and the powerless. Against this backdrop, Luke's Gospel portrays Jesus as a compassionate healer and advocate for social justice, a Savior deeply concerned about the marginalized and disenfranchised.
• His account of the early Christian communities in the Acts of the Apostles also underscores a radical sharing and care for community members, emphasizing the principle that no one in the community should be in need.

3. Liturgical References:

Hymn: "O Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke, intercede with the merciful God, that He grant to our souls forgiveness of sins."

4. Geographical Presence & Pilgrimage:

His veneration is widespread across both Eastern and Western Christianity.

The relics of Saint Luke have been a matter of dispute and various locations, including Padua, Italy, and Thebes, Greece, claim to possess them.

5. Visual representation:

He is often depicted with an ox or calf, which are symbols associated with his Gospel.

As an evangelist, he is frequently shown writing or holding his Gospel.

6. Textual Records:

• The Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles of the New Testament are attributed to him.
• His writings provide a comprehensive history of the life of Jesus, his ministry and the early Christian church.

7. Feast Days & Celebrations:

Celebrated on October 18 in both Eastern and Western Christian traditions.

8. Theological and Miraculous Significance:

Saint Luke's Gospel is notable for its emphasis on the compassion of Jesus, especially towards the marginalized. It contains parables not found in other Gospels, like the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son.

He provides a detailed account of the Virgin Mary's experiences, making his Gospel a primary source for Marian theology.

9. Modern-Day Influence & Patronage:

Patron saint of artists, bachelors, bookbinders, brewers, butchers, and, notably, physicians and surgeons.

His detailed account of the early Church in Acts continues to be a primary source for understanding the history and development of early Christianity.

‍10.  Broader Cultural Impact:

Saint Luke's Gospel has been influential in Christian art and theology, particularly in shaping the portrayal of the Virgin Mary in both Eastern and Western traditions.

His emphasis on Jesus' compassion and mercy has also influenced Christian ethics and teachings on social justice.

11. Tag:

Luke the Evangelist

Patron Saint of the Mentally Ill. He was born in Antioch.

He studied medicine in Tarsus. He died in Thebes, 84 years old.

Citizen of Edessa & Lamia. He is celebrated on October 18th.