Philip (jan 1, 33 – jan 1, 80)

Description:

Early Life and Background

-Born in Bethsaida, the same town as Peter and Andrew.
-Likely had a background in fishing, common in that region.

Calling by Jesus

-One of the first apostles called by Jesus.
-Encountered Jesus the day after Peter and Andrew were called (John 1:43).
-Invited Nathanael (also known as Bartholomew) to meet Jesus, saying, "We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph" (John 1:45).

Role Among the Apostles

-Acted as a link between Jesus and the Greek-speaking Jewish community.
-Often depicted as inquisitive and practical, asking Jesus to show them the Father (John 14:8).

Significant Events

-Present at the feeding of the 5,000, where he questioned how they could feed so many people with limited resources (John 6:5-7).
-Mentioned in the context of the Last Supper and his conversations with Jesus in the Gospel of John.

Ministry and Missionary Work

-After Jesus' resurrection and ascension, he took part in spreading the Gospel.
-Tradition holds that Philip preached in areas such as Asia Minor, particularly in Phrygia.
-Some traditions state he performed miracles and converted many to Christianity.

Martyrdom

-According to various traditions, Philip was martyred for his faith.
-Commonly believed to have been crucified in Hierapolis (modern-day Turkey).
-Some accounts suggest he was crucified upside down or tied to a cross, and then stoned.

Legacy

-Philip is venerated as a saint in multiple Christian denominations, including the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican, and Lutheran churches.
-His feast day is observed on May 3 in the Western Church and November 14 in the Eastern Church.
-Remembered for his role in bringing others to Jesus, exemplified in his interaction with Nathanael and the Greeks seeking Jesus.

Veneration

-Recognized for his dedication and missionary zeal.
-Often depicted in Christian art holding a cross, a symbol of his martyrdom, or with loaves of bread, referencing his role in the feeding of the 5,000.

Added to timeline:

Date:

Images:

Geo: