Icon of the Holy Apostle Simon the Zealot – embroidered, framed, 15x18cm.
The Holy Apostle Simon the Zealot was the one blessed to be a guest at the wedding in Cana of Galilee, where the Lord Jesus Christ performed His first miracle - turning water into wine. He was also known as "the Canaanite" and "the Zealot" because he belonged to the radical group of zealots.
Saint Simon the Zealot, also known as Nathanael, was the one who, leaving behind his house, parents, and earthly bride, worshiped the Heavenly Bridegroom.
Originally from Cana of Galilee, the town blessed by the Virgin Mary, he was close to the Son of God because Cana was near Nazareth.
After the Descent of the Holy Spirit, the guest from Cana began to preach the Gospel alongside the other Apostles, spreading the Word throughout the world. He preached in Mauritania, Africa, and Britain, where he gave his sacrifice, being crucified and buried.
In Bucharest, at the Podeanu Church, a part of his holy relics is preserved. The relics of Saint Simon the Zealot are protected by a baldachin, following the model of the one found in Rome, in one of the catacombs where the relics of Saints Cyril and Methodius are located.
The Holy Apostle Simon the Zealot is celebrated on May 10 and June 30, together with the other Apostles.
