Saint James the Lesser, also called James the Just or James, son of Alphaeus, is one of the Twelve Apostles chosen by Our Lord Jesus Christ. His life is marked by humility, purity, and steadfast leadership in the early Church, especially among Jewish Christians in Jerusalem.
Identity and Distinction
James the Lesser is distinguished from James the Greater (the brother of John). The title “the Lesser” likely refers to his age or relative prominence, not to his sanctity. He is traditionally identified with James, the son of Alphaeus, mentioned in the Synoptic Gospels. Many Fathers of the Church, such as St. Jerome, identify him with James the Just, a kinsman of Our Lord and first Bishop of Jerusalem.
Life and Ministry
James was known for his strict asceticism and was deeply respected among early Christians and even among some Jews, who regarded him as a just and holy man. As bishop of Jerusalem, he played a central role in guiding the early Church. He presided at the Council of Jerusalem, where it was resolved that Gentile converts need not observe all the ceremonial precepts of the Mosaic Law.
He is traditionally credited with the Epistle of James in the New Testament—a letter renowned for its emphasis on the necessity of good works in the life of faith, its practical counsel on Christian living, and its concern for the poor.
Martyrdom
James was martyred around the year 62 A.D. According to early Church historians, he was taken by the Pharisees to the pinnacle of the Temple and asked to renounce his faith in Christ. Instead, he proclaimed Jesus as the Son of God. As a result, he was thrown down from the height, stoned, and then struck with a blow that ended his life.
His martyrdom earned him great veneration in the early Church, and his steadfast witness remains a model of courage and fidelity to Christ.
Legacy and Veneration
His feast is traditionally celebrated on May 1st, along with Saint Philip. He is honored as a pillar of the early Church, an exemplar of righteous leadership, and a teacher of Christian virtue. His epistle continues to be a source of spiritual guidance, especially in emphasizing that true faith must be alive in works of charity and purity.