SAINT JOHN, APOSTLE OF THE WORD | Hymn for Feast of St. John the Evangelist — December 27

SAINT JOHN, APOSTLE OF THE WORD | Hymn for Feast of St. John the Evangelist
December 27 - the Church rejoices in the Feast of St. John, the Apostle and Evangelist, one of the most beloved figures in the New Testament. Known as “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” St. John holds a unique and intimate place in the life of Christ. He was part of the Lord’s innermost circle, a witness to His miracles, His glory on the mountaintop, and His agony in Gethsemane. Among all the apostles, John remained at the foot of the Cross, steadfast and faithful, receiving from Jesus the precious gift of Mary as our Mother.

St. John is also one of the four great evangelists—author of the Fourth Gospel, the Letters of John, and the Book of Revelation. His writings shine with depth, beauty, and divine mystery. Through him we hear the words, “In the beginning was the Word,” reminding us that Jesus is not simply a teacher or prophet, but the eternal Son of God made flesh. His Gospel lifts our hearts to the truth that God is love, and that all who abide in love abide in Him.

From St. John, we learn powerful lessons about what it truly means to follow Christ:
1. To stay close to the Heart of Jesus.
John rested upon the Lord’s breast at the Last Supper. He teaches us that discipleship is not just knowing Christ, but loving Him deeply and personally.
2. To stand firm in faith—especially in moments of suffering.
While others fled, John stayed at the Cross. He reminds us that real love remains, even when it is difficult, painful, or costly.
3. To welcome Mary into our lives.
By receiving Mary as his mother, John shows the Church the importance of embracing the Blessed Mother as a companion and intercessor on our journey to Jesus.
4. To proclaim Christ boldly.
As an evangelist, John reveals the fullness of who Jesus is: the Word made flesh, the Light of the world, the Good Shepherd, the true Vine, the Resurrection and the Life. Through his testimony, we are invited to grow in truth, faith, and hope.
5. To live in love.
John’s letters echo one central command: “Love one another.” He teaches us that Christian life is authentic only when it is rooted in charity—the love that comes from God Himself.

As we celebrate the Feast of St. John, the Apostle and Evangelist, we honor the beloved disciple who remained closest to the Heart of Christ. John was the one who leaned upon the Lord’s breast, who stood courageously at the foot of the Cross, and who received Mary as a precious gift for the whole Church. Through his Gospel, his letters, and the Book of Revelation, he revealed to us the deep truth that God is love and that Jesus is the eternal Word made flesh.
This hymn invites us to reflect on the life, witness, and mission of this great apostle. It recalls his profound intimacy with Jesus, his steadfast faith during the Passion, and his bold proclamation of the Light that no darkness can overcome. As we sing, may we be inspired by St. John’s example—his unwavering love, his fidelity, and his proclamation of Christ’s truth—and may his intercession lead us closer to the Word of Life.
May this hymn deepen our devotion and open our hearts to the love of Christ, just as St. John himself experienced it.
St. John, Apostle and Evangelist, beloved of the Lord—pray for us.
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