A Note From Father Rob

This week, we celebrate the namesake of our parish, St. James. There were quite a few disciples named James in the New Testament scripture, so determining the facts about ‘our’ James can be a little difficult. Here are some things we do know.

Our St. James is known as James the Less, differentiated from James the Great, another disciple of Jesus. James was also known as the “Younger,” the “Little,” the “Lessor” and the “Minor,” as well as James the Just. It is believed he was either shorter or younger than the other James.

We also know that James the Less had a father named Alphaeus, a brother named Joseph or Joses and a mother named Mary, who is believed to be the sister of Mary the mother of Jesus. Of course, this would make James the Less the cousin of Jesus. James’ mother is also believed to be identified as Mary Clopas who wept at the feet of Jesus during his crucifixion.

It is said that St. James the Less was the first ever to sing the mass in a service and is considered the first bishop of Jerusalem. This is the “James” we remember in our weekly Sunday services. He was a devout and dedicated servant of our Lord.

Rob+