Luke’s Gospel is sometimes called the Gospel of mercy. Only Luke tells us the parables of the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son, the story of Zacchaeus, and the words of the thief on the cross. He gives us more of Mary than any other Gospel: the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Magnificat. An old legend says he painted Mary’s portrait, which is why he’s also the patron of artists.
Historical Context
A Prayer to St Luke
St Luke, beloved physician,
you wrote of a Saviour who healed the sick and welcomed sinners.
Pray for all who are ill, in body or in soul.
Pray for doctors and surgeons, that they may be skilful, wise and kind.
And pray that I may know the mercy you wrote about.
Amen.
A Prayer for Doctors
Lord, bless the doctors who care for us.
Sharpen their judgment and steady their hands.
Protect them from exhaustion and let them never forget the person behind the chart.
St Luke, pray for them.
Amen.
A Prayer for Artists
St Luke, tradition says you painted the Mother of God.
Pray for artists, that their work may show something of God’s beauty.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- On 18 October, St Luke’s feast. Many hospitals hold a “White Mass” for medical workers around this date.
- Before surgery or a medical appointment.
- Before starting a painting or creative project.
Scripture Connection
“Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you.” — Colossians 4:14
One short line in a letter is all we have about Luke’s profession, but Paul calls him “beloved.” He was a healer who became a writer of the greatest healing story ever told.
Related prayers
For other evangelists, see the St Mark Prayer and St Matthew Prayer. For healing saints, the Prayer to St John of God. For artists, the Prayer for Creativity.