Judas Iscariot and Matthias

Feast day: February 28

The story of betrayal and apostolic succession in the early Church.

Betrayal, providence, and apostolic succession

Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Mt 26:14-16) and later ended his life in tragedy (Mt 27:3-5; Acts 1:18). After the Ascension, Peter gathered a community of about 120 people to choose a successor for Judas. Criteria were set for someone who had followed Jesus from the beginning. After casting lots between Joseph Barsabbas and Matthias, Matthias was chosen to complete the Twelve (Acts 1:15-26). This is the foundation of apostolic succession in the Church, ensuring that the mission of Christ continues through generations.

Prayer

Freedom, mercy, and apostolic succession

Freedom can fail. Judas's betrayal is a lesson on the failure of human freedom.
God provides for the Church. The choice of Matthias shows God's mercy and providence; the Church is never abandoned.
Apostolic succession signals Christ's presence. Through every age, He remains with the Church.

Always remain faithful to the vocation God has given you.

Prayer

Lord, help me to remain faithful to my vocation and be grateful for the apostolic succession in the Church. Amen.

The text on this page is the card in the Catholic Information app, word for word.