text: I have said this many times before, but the knowledge of Church history, especially early Christian development is missing from the education of priests, bishops, cardinals and even popes.  Their background is soooo shabby.  They assume to know the difference between the terms--- Twelve, apostle and disciple.  But the historical reality or the evangelists' use of the terms is not faithfully reflected in their understanding or teaching
  
  There were more than just the Twelve at the Last Supper---and scripture indicates it.  Both Barsabbas and Matthias [disciples] were certainly at the Last Supper and with Jesus always.  [Acts 1:21-23].  And women were certainly numbered among the 'disciples' as well as men.
  
  From historical-Jesus resurrect we know that Jesus gathered around himself a group of committed disciples LARGER than twelve; and secondly the disciples were those called by Jesus to a literal, physical following on his preaching tours around Palestine.  Women were there always.