Matthew was a tax collector during a time of corruption, and many people questioned his integrity. When Jesus invited Matthew to follow him as one of the twelve apostles, many were outraged. Christ answered, "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners." (Matthew 9:13) Because Matthew's gospel focuses on the story of Christ as man, while still recognizing Jesus' divinity, the symbol for Matthew is a winged man.
Feast Day: September 21