(July 25, 2025)
Patron Saint of: Spain, pilgrims, and laborers
About St. James the Greater
St. James the Greater was one of Jesus’ closest apostles — the brother of St. John and a son of Zebedee. He was among the first disciples called by Christ and witnessed key moments in Jesus’ life, including the Transfiguration and the Agony in the Garden. His fiery zeal earned him and his brother the nickname “Sons of Thunder” (Mark 3:17).
After Christ’s Ascension, tradition tells us that St. James preached the Gospel as far as Spain, and then returned to Jerusalem. He was the first apostle to be martyred, put to death by the sword under King Herod Agrippa (Acts 12:1–2), around the year 44 A.D.
His relics are believed to rest in Santiago de Compostela in Spain, a famous pilgrimage destination for centuries, known as the Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago).
Prayer to St. James
O glorious St. James,
faithful Apostle and courageous witness to Christ,
strengthen us to follow Jesus with zeal,
and help us to walk the path of faith with joy and perseverance.
Intercede for all pilgrims on their journey,
and guide us safely to our heavenly home.
St. James the Greater, pray for us!
Amen.
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