Matthew the Apostle: Banker and God's Storyteller

Matthew was a tax collector. In Jesus's day, Jewish tax collectors worked for the Romans and were often disliked for being unfair. Then one day, Jesus asked him to follow his way. Matthew invited Jesus into his home and became an apostle. After Jesus ascended into heaven, Matthew spread the Good News and wrote one of the gospels. He is the patron (September 21) of tax collectors, bankers, and accountants.

Saints are real-life heroes of faith who inspire us by their virtues to become more like Christ. In the Saints and Me series -- Saints for Communities, these beautifully illustrated early-reader books tell the real stories of saints that come to life and connect with today's children aged 4 to 9.

Barbara Yoffie has been in Catholic education for 35 years as both a primary grades classroom teacher and religion education coordinator. Currently, she is the coordinator of religious education at St. Clement of Rome Elementary School, St. Louis, MO. She is a well-known presenter on a variety of topics, including seasons of the Church year, saints, creative activities, and praying with children. Yoffie has a master's degree in religious education administration from Loyola University, New Orleans, a bachelor's degree in art education, and a certificate of religious studies, from Paul VI Institute, St. Louis. She is the author of several pamphlets and booklets on saints and choosing confirmation saints.

Jeff Albrecht has illustrated for Disney, Warner Bros., Marvel, DC Comics, and other entertainment companies. His animation has been seen on Cartoon Network. His Christian illustration credits include Master Books (A is for Adam, N is for Noah) and Living Faith Kids. He enjoys working in different styles from his studio in the St. Louis area.