Apostle · 1st century
James the Brother of the Lord
Apostle James, the Brother of the Lord
New Calendar October 23 Old Calendar November 5
Why they are a saint
James the Brother of the Lord was kinsman of the Lord, first bishop of Jerusalem, author of the Epistle of James; thrown from the Temple and beaten to death. The years given for this life are 1st century. His name is kept with the apostles of the Twelve or of the Seventy.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take James the Brother of the Lord as a patron when they bear the name James at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on October 23. Those who share his calling as a missionary also ask his prayers.
Prayer
O holy James the Brother of the Lord, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.