Saint James The Lesser

Biography

Saint James the Lesser, also known as Jacobus Minor, James the Just, James the Less, James the Younger, James son of Alphæus, and James the brother of the Lord, was a significant figure in early Christian history. He was a cousin of Jesus and the brother of Saint Jude Thaddeus. Born and raised in a Jewish home, James received a thorough training in Scripture and Law, as was customary at that time. As a devout Jew, James observed the religious laws and customs of his heritage. However, he became a convert to Christianity and was chosen as one of the Twelve Apostles by Jesus himself. Alongside his apostolic duties, James is recognized as one of the earliest witnesses to have visions of the risen Christ, which further enhanced his faith and commitment to spreading the Gospel. After the Crucifixion, James played a vital role in the early Christian community as the first Bishop of Jerusalem. He maintained a harmonious relationship with Saint Paul the Apostle and collaborated extensively to further the spread of Christianity. In their efforts, they worked together to resolve the issue of whether Gentile converts needed to adhere strictly to Jewish religious law. James defended the position that Gentiles did not require full observance, although he himself continued to uphold the customs of his Jewish heritage. Saint James the Lesser is known for his extraordinary prayer life and his deep devotion to the poor. His unwavering commitment to righteousness and justice earned him the titles of "James the Just" and "James the Righteous." He was admired for his act of selflessness and genuine care for those in need. Tragically, Saint James the Lesser met his martyrdom in Jerusalem around the year 62. While praying for his attackers, he was thrown from a pinnacle of the Temple and then stoned and beaten with clubs, including fuller's mallets. This brutal death led to the club becoming associated with him and being recognized as his symbol. Among the various representations of Saint James the Lesser, one can find images of him holding a book, symbolizing his profound knowledge of Scripture. Another symbol associated with him is the square rule, which signifies his involvement in guiding and establishing the early Christian community. Additionally, due to his martyrdom, he is often depicted with a fuller's club. Saint James the Lesser was venerated as a saint even in the early days of the Church, with his canonization occurring before the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. He is revered as the patron saint of dying people and is also recognized as a protector and intercessor for apothecaries, druggists, fullers, hatmakers, hatters, milliners, pharmacists, and wool carders or combers. His feast day is commemorated on May 3rd, 1st May (under the title James, son of Alpheus) in the Anglican tradition, October 9th (Orthodox tradition as James, son of Alpheus), October 23rd (Luther Church in America as James the Just and Orthodox as James the Righteous), and December 26th (Eastern Orthodox). Saint James the Lesser is venerated worldwide, and his influence can be seen through the many places, both cities and dioceses, that bear his name. These include Andora, Carovigno, Castiglione in Teverina, Cornaredo, Diso, Frascati, Monterotondo, Nemi, San Giacomo Filippo, Selvino, Venegono Inferiore in Italy, and Funchal, the city and diocese, in Portugal. In conclusion, Saint James the Lesser was a devoted apostle, a fervent supporter of the early Christian community, and a righteous man known for his dedication to prayer and compassion towards the poor. His martyrdom and significant contributions to the development of Christianity make him an esteemed figure in the history of the Church.