Post-feast of the Transfiguration. Holy Apostle Matthias.
Polyeleos Feast. Dormition Fast. Abstention from meat and foods that contain meat.
Acts 1:12-17, 21-26. Luke 9:1-6.
Read Acts 1:12-17, 21-26
Jesus had chosen twelve apostles as the foundation of the renewed Israel, the Church. One of the twelve, Judas Iscariot, had been thoroughly involved in the apostolic ministry before the Lord’s death and resurrection. We know that he betrayed the Lord and took his own life (this was actually foretold by David in the Psalms – Ps 69:25). For that early Christian community, led by Peter, it was important that the empty spot be filled by one who had not only witnessed the risen Lord but His entire public ministry beginning with the baptism He received from John (as did the other eleven apostles). Matthias was chosen to be the twelfth apostle.
There is an important aspect that we cannot afford to miss in this historical event. The decision to replace Judas was not made by a presentation of candidates to the group, and then after some deliberative conversation, a democratic vote was taken to choose the one to replace Judas. This was not a business meeting. Luke, the writer of the Acts of the Apostles, makes it clear to us that this entire event was a result of prayer – and not just of personal prayer but of corporate prayer, the body praying together. After the Ascension of our Lord, they did not form a corporation and make a mission statement and hire the necessary workers to accomplish the work that was set for them by the Lord. No, they devoted themselves to prayer – and relied on the Holy Spirit for direction – before entering into the process of choosing Matthias.
This devotion is key to any Christian body whether it be the eparchy led by a bishop, the local parish with the pastor and pastoral council, or even the domestic church. Praying together, seeking the Lord’s will all under the direction of the Holy Spirit.