Greek Orthodox Icons: Saint Luke (by Aikaterini)

Saint Luke the Evangelist (Ο Άγιος Λουκάς ο Ευαγγελιστής) is honoured in the Orthodox Church as one of the four authors of the Holy Gospel. A physician by profession and a companion of the Apostle Paul, he is traditionally regarded as the author of both the Gospel according to Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. Renowned for his detailed and orderly account, his writings emphasize the compassion of Jesus Christ, the universality of salvation, and the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Church. According to ancient tradition, Saint Luke was also the first iconographer, painting images of the Theotokos and inspiring the sacred art of the Church through his devotion. He is remembered not only as an evangelist and missionary, but also as a healer of both body and soul, a man whose life and work continue to guide the faithful.