Saint James the Greater

St. James the Greater, the tallest of the two apostles with the same name, was the brother of St. John the Evangelist (the beloved). James and John were fishing with their father when Jesus invited them to follow Him. They became deeply passionate followers of Christ (who named them Sons of Thunder) and they witnessed many miracles during His ministry. James was one of three witnesses to Jesus’ Transfiguration on Mount Tabor.

James’ mother is known for asking Jesus to secure a place of honour for her sons, in His Kingdom. When He asked James and John if they were able to drink the cup He was about to drink, their answer was yes. Jesus said they would indeed drink His cup (Matthew 20:20-23).

James was the first Apostle to be martyred. He was beheaded by King Herod in Jerusalem at Easter in the year 44. His body was taken to Compostela, Spain, and his remains can be found in the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, the final destination of the Camino de Santiago (The Way of St. James). July 25th is the Feast of St. James the Greater. He is the patron saint of pilgrims.

Saint Mary Magdalene

St. Mary Magdalene is the patron saint of converts and repentant sinners, and is the woman from whom Jesus cast out seven demons (Luke 8:2). She became a disciple of Christ and witnessed Jesus’ crucifixion, alongside the Blessed Virgin Mary. While some theologians believe that Our Lady was the first to speak with her Son following His resurrection, the first person recorded in scripture is Mary Magdalene. She became the Apostle to the Apostles, and, Jesus’ choice of her being the first to meet Him after His crucifixion and death validates the intense love and devotion that she had for Him. Her Feast Day is July 22nd.