E Sector

St. James the Apostle, also known as James the Greater, was the elder brother of St. John, Apostle and Evangelist. They were sons of Zebedee and Salome. James was among the first Disciples of Jesus. Being beheaded by King Herod Agrippa in the year 43 or 44, James participated in the chalice of the Lord's Passion and became the first of the Twelve to shed his blood for Gospel. From this we can conclude that James was very active in Jerusalem as a messenger of Christ. An ancient tradition believes that the person who denounced St. James to King Agrippa was converted by the Apostle’s commitment and fearlessness in the face of suffering and himself suffered martyrdom together with him. By profession, James and John were fishermen. As they were repairing their nets one day, Jesus passed by. The Lord called them away from the humble work of mending their nets and appointed them fishers of men. They promptly left their father and their nets and faithfully followed him. Together with Peter, James and John made up the core group of three Apostles.

Apostle James gives us a clear instruction about the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. "Is anyone among you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? He should sing praises. Is there anyone who is ill? He should send for the church elders, who will pray for him and rub olive oil on him in the name of the Lord. This prayer made in faith will heal the sick person; the Lord will restore him to health, and the sins he has committed will be forgiven." Let us, learn from him the lessons of Christian living, and follow his example of love and commitment to Christ the Lord. May he obtain for us the grace we need in order to be authentic Disciples of Christ.