Saint of the Day: St. James the Lesser | May 3, 2024

Saint James, a prominent figure in early Christianity, is known by several names, which have led to some confusion regarding his identity. Despite this, his life and contributions to the Christian faith remain significant. Let's explore the various aspects of his life and legacy.
Facts about Saint James:
1. Names attributed to Saint James:
• James the Lesser: This designation distinguishes him from James, the son of Zebedee, also known as James the Greater.
• James the son of Alphaeus: This name is mentioned in the lists of the Twelve Apostles in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
• James the Just: This title reflects his reputation for righteousness and piety within the early Christian community.
2. Early life and background:
• Saint James is believed to have been born into a devout Jewish family, possibly in the town of Nazareth.
• His mother, Mary, may have been a sister or close relative of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Jesus's mother.
3. Role in the early Christian community:
• Saint James held a distinguished position in the early Christian community of Jerusalem.
• He is traditionally considered the author of the Epistle of James, a book in the New Testament known for its practical wisdom and ethical teachings.
4. Relationship with Jesus:
• Saint James was a follower and disciple of Jesus Christ, witnessing his miracles, teachings, and resurrection.
• He was appointed as one of the Twelve Apostles, chosen by Jesus to spread the Gospel message.
5. Controversy and scholarly debate:
• Some scholars question whether Saint James, traditionally known as James the Lesser, was one of the Twelve Apostles.
• The Epistle of James, attributed to him, does not explicitly identify him as an apostle but rather as a "servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ."
While the exact nature of Saint James's apostolic status may be subject to debate, his influence on early Christianity and his enduring legacy as a pillar of faith and righteousness are undeniable.
May 3rd holds significance in the Catholic liturgical calendar as a day dedicated to honoring the lives and legacies of various saints who have contributed to the rich tapestry of Christian faith. Let us explore a few of these saints whose feast day falls on this date.
Saints Celebrated on May 3rd:
1. Saints Philip and James, Apostles:
• This feast day commemorates the apostles Philip and James, two of the Twelve Apostles chosen by Jesus Christ. Philip is known for his encounter with Nathanael and his question to Jesus about seeing the Father. James, often called James the Lesser, is traditionally considered the author of the Epistle of James in the New Testament.
2. Saint Alexander of Jerusalem:
• Saint Alexander was the fourth Bishop of Jerusalem, serving during the 3rd century. He played a significant role in defending the Orthodox faith against heretical teachings, particularly during the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD.
3. Saints Timothy and Maura:
• Saints Timothy and Maura were early Christian martyrs who suffered persecution for their faith in Egypt during the reign of Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century. They steadfastly refused to renounce their Christian beliefs and were ultimately executed for their refusal to worship pagan gods.
These saints, celebrated on May 3rd, exemplify the diversity of Christian devotion and the courage of those who remained faithful to their beliefs, even in the face of persecution and adversity. Let us honor their memory and draw inspiration from their steadfast faith and commitment to Christ.
For those interested in delving deeper into the lives and teachings of the saints celebrated on May 3rd, numerous resources are available to provide valuable insights and historical context. Below are two recommended sources where viewers can explore further:
Sources for More Information:
1. Catholic Online (www.catholic.org):
• Catholic Online offers a comprehensive database of saints, including biographical information, feast days, and prayers associated with each saint. Visitors can search for specific saints or browse through categories to discover saints celebrated on May 3rd and beyond.
2. The Vatican's official website (www.vatican.va):
• The Vatican's website provides authoritative information on saints and their feast days, along with official documents, encyclicals, and other resources related to the Catholic Church. Visitors can access a wealth of information on saints, including their biographies, writings, and contributions to the faith.
These sources serve as invaluable resources for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of the saints celebrated on May 3rd and their enduring significance within the Catholic tradition.