Akathist Hymn to the Holy Apostle & Evangelist Luke (Oct 18)

The Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke was a physician from Antioch, a disciple and traveling-companion of the Apostle Paul, who refers to him as the 'beloved physician.' He wrote not only his Gospel but the Acts of the Apostles, dedicating both to Theophilus, who according to one tradition was the Governor of Achaia, a convert. Much of the Acts of the Apostles is written in the first person, describing his own travels with the St Paul. He lived to an old age and died in Achaia, possibly in Patras. Most ancient authors say that he died as a Martyr.

His feast-day is on the 18 / 31 October. The akathist hymn to Saint Luke has been translated from Slavonic.