Today, July 25, as our Church celebrates the Feast of James, Apostle, we are encouraged to first read and reflect on a passage from the first letter of the apostle Paul to the Corinthians (4:1-16) entitled " Let us imitate the Apostle just as he imitates Christ. Our treasure, which follows, is from a homily on Matthew by Saint John Chrysostom, bishop.
Saint James, son of Zebedee and brother of Saint John the apostle, was born at Bethsaida. Saint James the Apostle, also known as James the Greater, is primarily known for being one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ.
Saint James was one of the closest companions of Jesus, witnessing pivotal moments like the Transfiguration and the raising of Jairus' daughter. He was beheaded by King Herod Agrippa I around 44 AD, making him the first apostle to be martyred.
Saint James is strongly associated with the Camino de Santiago, a network of pilgrimage routes leading to his supposed tomb in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. The scallop shell, a symbol found on the shores of Galicia, is a symbol of pilgrims on this route.
Like all the Apostles, the Church gratefully celebrates Saint James' unique role in the Redemption. Not only did the Apostles continue the Lord's mission in their own day, but by communicating their apostolic office to others they ensured its perpetuation down the ages until the Lord returns.
Saint John Chrysostom was an important, fourth century, early Church Father who served as Archbishop of Constantinople. He is known for his preaching and public speaking, and for his denunciation of abuse of authority of both ecclesiastical and political leaders. He was among the most prolific authors in the early Christian church. The word 'Chrysostom' means 'golden-mounted'. This name was given to him after he died because all his sermons were eloquent and lovely to hear.
The homilies on the Gospel of Matthew by Saint John Chrysostom are a wonder to behold. Saint John took a more literal interpretation of Scripture, and much of his work focused on practical aspects of Christianity, particularly what is now called social justice. He advocated for the poor, and challenged abuses of authority.
In his first letter to the Corinthians Paul warns against divisions within the Church and emphasizes the importance of unity among Church members. He warns members against sexual immorality, teaches that the body is a temple for the Holy Spirit, and encourages self-discipline.
