Saint John the Theologian: Life and legacy of the Apostle and Evangelist

The life and legacy of Saint John the Theologian, an Apostle and Evangelist, are commemorated by the Christian Church. As one of the closest disciples of Jesus Christ, John was present at significant biblical events, including the Transfiguration and the Last Supper. At Golgotha, Jesus entrusted the care of the Virgin Mary to him.

Following the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, John preached the Gospel in Asia Minor, primarily in Ephesus. His writings include the Gospel of John, the Book of Revelation, and three epistles, centered on the theme that ‘God is love’. During his life, he faced persecution under Emperor Dometian, which included torture and exile to the island of Patmos.

Tradition holds that John lived to be over one hundred years old. According to religious accounts, when his grave was later opened, his body was not found. The Church celebrates his memory on May 8, noting reports of fragrant dust emerging from his grave.