Feast of St. James Major

St. James the Greater, also known as the son of Zebedee and brother of John the Evangelist, was one of the original twelve apostles called by Jesus Christ. Born in Galilee to Zebedee and Mary Salome, St. James was a fisherman before Christ called him to discipleship.

Alongside his brother, he became one of the closest disciples of Jesus, present at key moments like the Transfiguration and the Agony in Gethsemane. Known for their zealousness, James and John earned the nickname "Boanerges," or sons of thunder, for their fervent preaching of the Gospel. After the ascension of Jesus, James preached throughout Judea and later traveled to Spain, where tradition holds he spread Christianity before returning to Jerusalem. There, he faced martyrdom under King Herod Agrippa I, becoming the first apostle to die for his faith.

His death, by the sword, marked the beginning of Christian persecution under Herod. James' legacy endured through the ages, particularly in Spain, where his relics were believed to have been miraculously transported to Compostela, making it a major pilgrimage site. His life exemplifies dedication to Christ and the proclamation of the Gospel, even in the face of persecution and martyrdom.

Patron saint against arthritis, against rheumatism and of apothecaries, blacksmiths, cavalry, equestrians, hatters, knights, laborers, pilgrims, tanners, veterinarians, Army of Portugal, Chile, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Spain, and the Archdiocese of Seattle.

You can celebrate his feast at home by:

• Learn more about Saint James online here.
• Evangelize others into the faith, through prayer, word and action.
• Attend Mass
• Plan or go on a pilgrimage. Learn more about local Jubilee Pilgrimage sites online here and look for more in the July 26 edition of the Clarion Herald!