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As we deepen our relationship with the Eternal Word, Jesus Christ, we grow in grace and are transformed by His love and mercy.
St. Philip, first century–c. A.D. 80
St. James the Less, first century–c. A.D. 62
St. Philip: Patron Saint of hatmakers and pastry chefs
St. James the Less: Patron Saint of pharmacists and the dying
The feast of Sts. Philip and James the Less honor two of the Twelve Apostles who played important roles in the early Church.
Philip was from Bethsaida, the same town as Peter and Andrew. In the Gospel of John, he is among the first disciples called by Jesus. Philip’s immediate response was to find Nathanael and invite him to meet the Lord. His simple words, “Come and see,” echo through the centuries as an invitation to every seeker.
In the Gospel accounts, Philip often asks sincere questions that reveal a desire to understand more deeply. At the Last Supper, he said to Jesus, “Lord, show us the Father.” Jesus responded, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” These words became one of the clearest revelations of Christ’s divine identity. Throughout the Gospel, Philip appears eager to understand and to bring others to Christ. After Pentecost, he evangelized in Greece and in Phrygia (modern-day Turkey).
St. James was called “the Less” likely because he was younger or smaller in stature than James the Greater. He was the son of Alphaeus. He is widely identified with James the Just, who became Bishop of Jerusalem. St. Paul refers to him as a “pillar” of the Church.
James played a key role at the Council of Jerusalem, helping guide the early Christian community as it welcomed Gentile converts. He is traditionally credited with the New Testament Letter of James, which emphasizes living faith through good works.
Both Apostles suffered martyrdom. St. James the Less was stoned to death in Jerusalem around 62 A.D. According to tradition, St. Philip was crucified around the year 80 A.D. while doing missionary work in Asia Minor during the Roman Empire’s Christian persecutions.
Early Christian tradition holds that after Pentecost, St. Philip preached in Greece and regions of Asia Minor, including Phrygia. Ancient accounts describe him converting many to the Faith and enduring persecution. Some traditions say he was martyred in Hierapolis. While historical details vary, his legacy as a missionary Apostle reflects his readiness to share Christ with others. He began with his invitation to Nathanael, then, with St. Andrew’s help, he connected a group of Greeks with Jesus, and he continued bringing people to Christ throughout his life.
St. James the Less, also called James the Just, was the first Bishop of Jerusalem, appointed by the Apostles after Jesus’ Ascension. He served the Church for more than 30 years. As a “pillar” of the early Church, he led the Council of Jerusalem in 51 A.D., where he made the deciding argument that Gentile converts did not need to follow Jewish dietary laws. He presided over the Church in a time of great persecution. He was revered for his holiness, and his influence remains in Jerusalem today. The Armenian Orthodox Patriarchate includes the Cathedral of St. James, which is believed to stand on the site of his martyrdom and to contain some of his relics. According to tradition, he was martyred in Jerusalem by being thrown from the Temple, stoned, and killed with a club.
The relics of Sts. Philip and James the Less, Apostles, are preserved together in a shrine within the crypt of the Basilica of the Twelve Holy Apostles (Basilica dei Santi XII Apostoli) in Rome, Italy. They have been housed there since the sixth century, following their transfer from Constantinople. This church contains the relics of both Apostles beneath the main altar. Philip was originally martyred in Hierapolis (modern-day Turkey). His remains were moved to Constantinople and eventually to Rome. James the Less was also moved from Jerusalem via Constantinople to Rome, where they were placed together. Jerusalem houses some relics of St. James.
The original Twelve Apostles are to be greatly admired. They were among the first to answer Jesus’ call, aside from Mary and Joseph, and spent the most time with Him, learning from God firsthand what it means to be truly human. Thus, from the Apostles, we can learn many lessons and many examples of virtue. We can also learn from their mistakes and struggles.
We hope you enjoy this resource and are inspired by it to follow the example of the Apostles in their love and faithfulness to Christ.
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As we deepen our relationship with the Eternal Word, Jesus Christ, we grow in grace and are transformed by His love and mercy.
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