*We highlight these Saints to inspire our students and contribute to their growth in Catholic education by fostering understanding and appreciation for Catholic values and teachings. We encourage parents to share the stories of these Saints with their children to deepen their spirituality and motivate them to live their faith with conviction, following the examples of these admired role models.*
Saint James, also known as James the Greater or Santiago in Spanish, is one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and holds a significant place in Christian history. He is often referred to as Saint James the Greater to distinguish him from another apostle, James the Lesser. Information about his life comes primarily from the New Testament and Catholic tradition. Saint James is special to our community because of St. Phillip and James School, located in St. James, NY.
Saint James is believed to have been born in the 1st century, likely around 1-6 AD, in the fishing village of Bethsaida, near the Sea of Galilee. His father’s name is Zebedee, and his mother’s name is Salome. He and his brother John, were a fisherman by trade. They were mending their nets when Jesus called them to become “fishers of men” in Matthew 4:21-22.
“But if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and he will be given it.”
James 1:5
James was one of the first disciples chosen by Jesus to be part of his inner circle. Along with his brothers John and Peter, he was present at some of the most significant events in Jesus’ life, such as the Transfiguration and His Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane.
Saint James is believed to have a fiery temper, and because of this James and his brother John earned the nickname “Sons of Thunder”. For example, in Luke 9:51-56, James and his brother John wanted to call down fire on a Samaritan town, but were rebuked by Jesus.
“What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him?”
James 2:14
Saint James the Greater was also the first apostle to be martyred. According to The Book of Acts 12:1, King Herod Agrippa I ordered the execution of James by sword in 44 AD. His body was carried by his disciples by sea to Iberia, where they landed at Paron, and took it inland for burial at Santiago de Compostela. His martyrdom for his Christian faith established him as a symbol of unwavering devotion and is celebrated on July 25th.
Saint James is also known for his association with the Camino de Santiago (“Way of Saint James”), a famous pilgrimage route in northern Spain. The city of Santiago de Compostela is the final resting place of the apostle, and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is a major pilgrimage destination for Christians. Upon reaching Santiago de Compostela, the pilgrims of the Middle Ages collected their long-anticipated souvenirs: a “compostela,” a certificate verifying the pilgrim made the journey, and a scallop seashell that was worn on the breast or hat.
Saint James the Greater’s life and martyrdom have left a lasting impact on Christianity, and his pilgrimage route in Spain continues to draw people seeking spiritual growth and self-discovery. His influence is felt not only in Spain but also in various parts of the world where Christian communities honor his memory. His devotion and significance persist in the hearts of millions of Christians worldwide.
FAMILY ACTIVITY: El Camino de Santiago may be too far to take your family, but you can always make a closer pilgrimage! Take some time to go out of your way to take your children to visit a church that is special to you. Attend Mass, stop by for adoration, or receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation with your kids. Bonus points if it’s a nice day and you walk like the pilgrims on the Camino!