How many Bartholomews can you name? I suspect the answers to a straw poll would be limited to one of the Simpsons, Eric Morecambe’s real surname or the oldest hospital in London. I wonder how many would readily identify him as one of Jesus’ disciples?

Bartholomew appears in the gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke, though not in John where Nathanael is mentioned instead.

Yet, despite being one of the chosen 12, the truth is we know little about him.

His name translates as ‘son of the furrows’, suggesting he was a ploughman; he was probably born in or near Cana.

He became a missionary, spreading the gospel to such places as India, Mesopotamia and Ethiopia, as well as Armenia where he was flayed and crucified for his faith.

He is the supposed author of the apocryphal gospel of Jerome and the patron saint of bookbinders, nervous diseases, butchers and shoemakers to name but a few.

Bartholomew remains one of the unsung heroes of the church, who enjoyed a closeness to Jesus without ever receiving the same status or kudos as the likes of Peter, James and John; yet he is no less important.

Our communities, workplaces and churches need Bartholomews – those who go about their work quietly, efficiently and humbly without seeking personal gratification.

Bartholomew gave his life; they give freely and generously of their time.

We can all identify them. What better time than August 24, the Feast of St Bartholomew, to remember them and give grateful thanks for all they do.

The Rev Ashley Henderson, Kendal Parish Church