On March 21, we honor the memory of St. Apostle James – brother of the Lord.
St. Apostle James, or as he is also spelled Jacob, is the brother of Jesus Christ through Joseph. As is known, the earthly bridegroom of the Virgin Mary was a widower and had children from his first marriage.
His only son was named Jacob.
St. James, brother of the Lord was a follower and became one of the disciples of Jesus Christ, as well as one of his 12 apostles.
After Christ was crucified on the Cross, resurrected and ascended to Heaven, St. Apostle James became the first bishop of Jerusalem and held this position for 33 years.
St. Apostle James did not write a Gospel as did the other four apostles - Mark, Matthew, Luke and John, therefore he is not titled an evangelist. The days of the foster brother of Jesus Christ ended in martyrdom, as did most of his disciples and apostles. St. James was thrown from the roof of the temple in which he served. He was stoned and finally, after a strong blow to the head, he died.
A name day is celebrated by all those with the names Jacob, Yako, Jacob, Jacobina, Jacques, Jacqueline, Jacqueline.