St. James – Patron of Hatmakers

Saint James was called the Less amongst the apostles of Jesus to differentiate from him James the brother of John. His mother was a relative of Mary the Mother of Jesus. He was also associated as one of those who witnessed the Lord’s Resurrection

Saint James according to tradition was the first of Jerusalem. It was envisaged that, he was martyred by the Jews for the Faith in the spring of the year 62. He was the author of the Epistle that bears his name.

Saint Philip was a native of Bethsaida in Galilee. He was one of the first four apostles of Jesus. He was married with several children, three of whom are saints, but he left all these to follow Jesus Christ.

Saint Philip preached the Gospel in Phrygia Asia Minor the then Province of the Roman Empire. He worked and died there.

Reflection: These two apostles of our Lord Jesus spent their energy and life for the spread of the Good News of the kingdom of God. Can we try even to pray for the salvation of souls?