Matthias the Apostle was a first-century missionary and one of the twelve apostles. Following the departure of Judas Iscariot, the remaining disciples selected Matthias to join the group through the casting of lots. Although he was not listed among the original followers in the synoptic gospels, the Acts of the Apostles indicates he had been present with Jesus from the baptism of John until the Ascension. He is recognized as a saint in various Christian traditions, including Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, and Lutheran.