From the Desk of Deacon Judy

Saint James of Jerusalem

October 23 is the day we commemorate St. James of Jerusalem. This is not our St. James (we are St. James the Lesser, honored on May 1). This is not St. James the Greater (honored on July 25), son of Zebedee, whose remains made their way to Spain and is now venerated on the famous Camino de Santiago de Compostela.

This St. James was related to Jesus – some say brother, some say step-brother, some say cousin. James was converted after the resurrection of Jesus. He eventually became the Bishop of Jerusalem.

James proclaimed the Good News for all (Gentiles and Jews). James, known as James the Just, led many to believe in Jesus, refused to denounce his faith, and was martyred in Jerusalem. As Jesus warned, the path of following Jesus can be filled with struggles and sacrifice.

Let us pray the prayer for St. James of Jerusalem:

Grant, O God, that following the example of your servant James the Just, brother of our Lord, your Church may give itself continually to prayer and to the reconciliation of all who are at variance and enmity; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

God’s peace,

Judy Q+