St. James

James is the Son of Zebedee and Salome and brother of John the disciple—the title “the Greater” was added to St. James’ name to help distinguish him from the Apostle James “the Less.” Saint James the Greater was one of Jesus’ first disciples. James was fishing with his father and John the Apostle when Jesus came to the shores of the Sea of Galilee and called for the fisherman. James was one of only three called by Jesus to witness his Transfiguration. Following Christ’s Ascension, James spread the Gospel across Israel and the Roman kingdom as well. He traveled and spread the Word for nearly forty years in Spain. Later, James returned to Jerusalem but was martyred for his faith by King Herod, who decapitated him. He was known as the first apostle to die.