Feast of St. John the Apostle: History and Traditions on December 27

Introduction

Among the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, St. John holds a special place for his unique role as the “disciple whom Jesus loved” and a witness to key moments in Jesus’ ministry, death, and resurrection. The Feast of St. John the Apostle, celebrated on December 27 in the Western Christian Church, honors his faith, teachings, and contributions to Christianity. This day also offers a time for believers to reflect on the themes of love, faith, and witness embodied by John’s life.

Who Was St. John the Apostle?

St. John, son of Zebedee and brother of James, was one of the first disciples called by Jesus. St. John is frequently credited with composing the Gospel of John as well as three epistles (1, 2, and 3 John), and the Book of Revelation, making him a towering figure in the New Testament. Known for his close relationship with Jesus, John was present at many pivotal events: the Transfiguration, the raising of Jairus’ daughter, and he stood beside Jesus at the cross during the crucifixion. According to tradition, John lived to an old age, dying as the only apostle who was not martyred.

Historical Significance of December 27

The feast date of December 27 was established to follow closely after Christmas, placing the celebration of John amidst the Octave of the Nativity—an eight-day period of continued Christmas festivity. His feast day provides a spiritual bridge focusing on testimony and witness, complementing the birth of Christ celebrated on December 25.

John’s life exemplifies the apostolic mission of witnessing the incarnation of God’s love through Jesus Christ. His writings emphasize love as a core Christian value, most famously summarized in his statement: “God is love” (1 John 4:8). Thus, his feast calls the faithful to meditate on divine love, fidelity, and perseverance in faith.

Theological Contributions of St. John

St. John’s theological perspectives are distinctive within the New Testament. His Gospel begins with the profound declaration: “From the start, the Word existed, was alongside God, and was fully God” (John 1:1). This identifies Jesus as the eternal Word (Logos), affirming His divinity and preexistence.

John’s epistles further emphasize love, truth, and fellowship as fundamental to Christian life. The Book of Revelation, an apocalyptic vision attributed to John, provides hope and encouragement to Christians enduring persecution, using rich symbolism to depict the final victory of good over evil.

Traditional Observances and Customs

Different Christian denominations and cultures have developed diverse ways to celebrate the Feast of St. John the Apostle:

• Liturgical Celebrations: Church services on December 27 often include readings from John’s Gospel or epistles, focusing on his themes of love and witness. The color white is commonly used in vestments, symbolizing purity and joy.
• Blessing of Wine: One unique tradition, especially in parts of France, Spain, and Italy, is the blessing of wine on St. John’s feast day. This custom reflects John’s role as an evangelist who reveals the transformative power of Christ, often likened metaphorically to wine in Scripture.
• Feasts and Social Gatherings: Many Christian communities hold festive meals and gatherings, reflecting the joy and celebration associated with John’s apostolic witness.
• Symbols Associated with St. John: The eagle, representing the lofty theological insights of his Gospel, is a common emblem. Other symbols include a chalice with a serpent, referencing a legend about attempts to poison John that God miraculously averted.

St. John’s Day in Different Cultures

The feast of St. John the Apostle is marked worldwide with local customs that highlight community, faith, and tradition:

• Europe: In Catholic countries such as Spain and Italy, processions and special Masses honor St. John’s contributions to Christianity. The blessed wine tradition is also observed in some regions.
• United States and Canada: Many churches celebrate with special sermons, hymnody, and reflection on John’s writings, emphasizing his message of love.
• Eastern Orthodox Church: While the date may differ due to the Julian calendar, the Orthodox Church also commemorates St. John with liturgies focusing on his role as the “Theologian” and his spiritual writings.

Reflections on the Legacy of St. John

St. John the Apostle’s lasting influence shapes Christian spirituality profoundly. His emphasis on love as the foundation of faith challenges believers to live authentically and compassionately. His witness to Jesus’ divinity and resurrection affirms the core of Christian belief: that God became flesh and dwelt among us.

John’s life also offers a model of devotion and perseverance. Traditionally viewed as the “Beloved Disciple,” his close companionship with Jesus invites reflection on intimacy with God as the source of strength for discipleship.

Conclusion

The Feast of St. John the Apostle on December 27 invites the faithful to celebrate a unique legacy of love, faith, and witness. Through liturgy, customs like the blessing of wine, and reflective reading of his writings, Christians reconnect with the mission to bear witness to Christ’s love in the world.

This feast, nestled within the Christmas season, extends the joy of the Nativity by focusing on one who lived and proclaimed the message of Christ with unwavering conviction. As believers commemorate St. John’s feast, they are encouraged to emulate his example—rooting their lives in love, truth, and steadfast faithfulness.