Saint Andrew

St Andrew History

The Observance of Saint Andrew honors the life and deeds of Saint Andrew the Apostle, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. The commemoration typically consists of several events, including religious services, processions, cultural activities, and the hoisting of flags to symbolize unity and faith. Saint Andrew's Day is observed in several countries, particularly those where Saint Andrew is the patron saint, such as Scotland, Romania, and Barbados. The venerable apostle is esteemed for his humility, courage, and unwavering faith in the midst of adversity.

Saint Andrew is believed to have been a fisherman, like his brother Simon Peter, and was among the first disciples called by Jesus. According to tradition, he was crucified on an X-shaped cross, now commonly referred to as the "Saint Andrew's cross." Though Saint Andrew's direct connection to America may seem distant, many Americans of Scottish descent celebrate the observance to honor their ancestral roots and maintain ties with Scotland, where Saint Andrew is the patron saint. Additionally, the Episcopal Church honors Saint Andrew in its calendar of saints and various liturgical observances.

In America, Saint Andrew's Day is observed with a combination of religious and secular events. Many churches conduct special services and prayers on this day, while various Scottish-American societies and organizations hold gatherings to celebrate their shared heritage. Typically, these events feature traditional Scottish foods, dances, music, and the wearing of tartan patterns to represent clan affiliations. Saint Andrew's Day is observed on November 30th each year.

Saint Andrew facts

• Andrew was reportedly martyred on November 30 in the year 60 A.D by a Roman governor's order in Achaia (Greece). He was crucified and bound to the cross to increase his suffering. The cross was tilted to create an "x," which is known today as St. Andrew's cross and is the basis for the Scottish flag.
  
• The Feast of St. Andrew is the last holiday of the Christian year. It is held the day before Advent begins, November 30 in Roman Catholic and some Protestant churches. St. Andrew's Day is a holiday in Scotland that honors the disciple as the country's patron saint.
• St. Andrew is the brother of St. Peter (Simon Peter), who was the first leader of the church.
• St. Andrew is the Patron saint of : Amalfi (Italy), Barbados, Esgueira (Portugal), Luqa (Malta), Patras (Greece), Romania, Russia, Scotland and Ukraine.

In the News and Trending in the US for Saint Andrew

Top things to do in the US for St Andrew's Day

• Travel to Scotland to celebrate St. Andrew's Day. The holiday commences many parties and festivals in Scotland and it is also an official holiday in the country.
• Visit St Andrew's Cathedral in Patras, Greece. It is the largest church in the Balkans region and one of the largest in Europe. According to history, St. Andrew was crucified just outside of the church.
• St. Andrew's remains, or relics, are thought to be buried in Italy at the cathedral in Amalfi. Pilgrimage to Italy to visit.
• Go fishing or enjoy a seafood dinner. St. Andrew is the patron saint of fishermen. He was a fisherman before he left his old life to follow Jesus Christ.