After the Ascension of the Lord and while the apostles were awaiting the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, they chose MATTHIAS to replace Judas Iscariot. Matthias had been a disciple of our Lord Jesus and a witness to His resurrection. Tradition ascribes Matthias as having proclaimed the Gospel on the African continent and suffering martyrdom in Ethiopia.
Christ heralds everyone to participate in the divine life this side of heaven, each person in their own surroundings and particular circumstances.
The apostles did not choose Christ Jesus in the way we seek out a teacher or mentor. It was Christ who sought them. In the case of Matthias, the apostles do not engage in political haggling to fill the vacancy. Instead they sincerely and confidently place the election in God’s hands.
Saint Matthias, pray for us!
