St James Prayer for Pilgrims on the Camino #catholic #camino #caminodesantiago #catholicism #prayer

Saint James the Greater, also known as James the Apostle or James, son of Zebedee, was one of the Twelve Apostles chosen by Jesus Christ. He is referred to as "the Greater" to distinguish him from the other Apostle James, known as James the Lesser.

According to the Gospels, James and his brother John were fishermen by trade when Jesus called them to be his disciples. They were among the inner circle of Jesus' closest companions, along with Peter. James witnessed several significant events in Jesus' ministry, including the Transfiguration and the raising of Jairus' daughter.

James, along with his brother John, displayed a zealous and ambitious nature. In one instance, they requested to sit at Jesus' right and left hand in his kingdom, which Jesus addressed by teaching them about humility and service.

Tradition holds that James was the first of the Apostles to be martyred for his faith. Around the year 44 AD, he was executed by King Herod Agrippa I, who sought to please the Jewish leaders. James' martyrdom is recorded in the New Testament book of Acts (Acts 12:1-2).

Following his death, James' body was taken to Spain, where it is believed to be buried in the city of Santiago de Compostela. The location eventually became a major pilgrimage site known as the Camino de Santiago, which continues to attract millions of pilgrims from around the world to this day.

Saint James the Greater is recognized as the patron saint of Spain, as well as pilgrims, laborers, and equestrians. His feast day is celebrated on July 25th in the liturgical calendar of the Catholic Church. He is remembered for his loyalty to Christ, his witness to the Gospel, and his role in spreading Christianity.