Peter (Simon Peter): Peter, originally named Simon, was a fisherman by trade and one of the first disciples called by Jesus. He is often considered the leader of the twelve apostles. Jesus gave him the name "Peter," meaning "rock," signifying his foundational role in the early Church. In Matthew 16:18 , Jesus declares, "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it." Peter is known for his boldness and impetuous nature, as seen when he walked on water (Matthew 14:29) and when he denied Jesus three times before the crucifixion (Matthew 26:69-75). After Jesus' resurrection, Peter was restored and became a leading figure in the early Christian community, as depicted in the Acts of the Apostles. He is traditionally credited with authoring the epistles of 1 and 2 Peter.

James (James the Greater): James, the son of Zebedee and brother of John, is often referred to as James the Greater to distinguish him from James the Less, another apostle. He was part of Jesus' inner circle, along with Peter and John, witnessing significant events such as the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-2) and the raising of Jairus' daughter (Mark 5:37). James and John were nicknamed "Boanerges," meaning "sons of thunder," possibly due to their fiery zeal (Mark 3:17). James was the first apostle to be martyred, as recorded in Acts 12:2 : "He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword." His martyrdom marked a significant moment in the early Church, highlighting the cost of discipleship.

John (John the Apostle): John, the brother of James and son of Zebedee, was also a fisherman and part of Jesus' inner circle. Known as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (John 13:23), John had a close relationship with Jesus and was present at key moments, including the Last Supper and the crucifixion, where Jesus entrusted him with the care of His mother, Mary (John 19:26-27). John is traditionally credited with writing the Gospel of John, three epistles (1, 2, and 3 John), and the Book of Revelation. His writings emphasize love, truth, and eternal life. John is believed to have lived to an old age, dying in Ephesus, and is often associated with the early Christian community there.

Andrew: Andrew, the brother of Peter, was also a fisherman and one of the first disciples called by Jesus. According to John 1:40-41 , "Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard John’s testimony and followed Jesus. He first found his brother Simon and told him, 'We have found the Messiah' (which is translated as Christ)." Andrew is known for his role in bringing others to Jesus, including his brother Peter. He is mentioned in the feeding of the five thousand, where he points out the boy with five loaves and two fish (John 6:8-9). Andrew's missionary work is less detailed in the New Testament, but tradition holds that he preached in various regions, including Greece, and was martyred by crucifixion. His symbol is often an X-shaped cross, known as St. Andrew's Cross, reflecting the manner of his martyrdom.