Saint Bartholomew is mentioned in the synoptic gospels and Acts as one of the twelve apostles. His name, a patronymic, means son of Tolomai and scholars believe he is the same as Nathanael mentioned in John, who says he is from Cana and that Jesus called him an Israelite incapable of deceit. The Roman Martyrology says he preached in India and Greater Armenia, where he was flayed and beheaded by King Astyages. Tradition has the place as Abanopolis on the west coast of the Caspian Sea and that he also preached in Mesopotamia, Persia and Egypt. The Gospel of Bartholomew is apochryphal and was condemned in the decree of Pseudo-Gelasius.

Feast Day August 24.