James the Less

Saint James the Less was born in the Holy Land in the first century, though the details of his early life are not known. The Gospels remember him among the close circle of the Lord’s followers, traditionally identifying him as James son of Alphaeus, one of the Twelve Apostles. He is called “the Less” not because his mission mattered less, but to distinguish him from James the Great—perhaps because he was younger or of smaller stature. Ancient Christian tradition also associates him with James “the Just,” known as a kinsman of Jesus, since Scripture often uses the word “brother” for close relatives. His mother is linked with Mary of Clopas, one of the faithful women who stood near the Cross, and thus James is remembered as coming from a family marked by steadfast devotion. Venerated as a pillar of the early Church and honored in places such as Andora, Langhirano, Pezzan, and San Giacomo Filippo, he is commemorated for his quiet fidelity to Christ. His feast day is May 3.