Sanctus Matthias, Sanctus Petrus, Sanctus Andreas

Saint Andrew the Apostle

The crucifixion of St. Andrew with an emphasis on the saving power of the cross is the image most portrayed by artist when considering Saint Andrew. . For this reason, the cross is Andrew's attribute in this stained glass window. The cross the shape of an X, influenced by the story of St. Peter's crucifixion upside-down. The X-shaped cross is known as the "cross saltire." As an apostle St. Andrew is also commonly shown with a book, a contemplative emphasis to meditate on his book

The subjects for narrative images of St. Andrew include his crucifixion, his calling by Christ as related in Matthew 4:18-20, the legendary episodes from his years as a preacher, and miracles affected in his name.

Feast day: November 30

Saint Peter the Apostle

From the earliest images until modern times St. Peter's primary attribute is a pair of keys referring to Christ's words to Peter in Matthew 16:18-19 "I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven." Because this text is cited in support of papal sovereignty, he is sometimes portrayed as a Pope, with a triple tiara or a triple cross. He also often has a book, a reference to the two New Testament letters ascribed to him.

Feast days:

June 29 (Crucifixion of St. Peter)

February 22 (St. Peter's Chair)

November 18 (Dedication of the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul)

Saint Matthias the Apostle

St. Matthias is the disciple who was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot, according to Acts 1:12-26. According to legend, St. Matthias was assigned to preach in Judea. St. Matthias was killed with an axe.

Images from the modern era sometimes show St. Matthias with an axe or spear, and often with a book.

Feast day: February 24