Apostle · 1st century
James (son of Alphaeus)
Apostle James, son of Alphaeus
New Calendar October 9 Old Calendar October 22
Why they are a saint
James (son of Alphaeus) was one of the Twelve. Distinct from James the brother of the Lord and from James son of Zebedee. The years given for this life are 1st century. Orthodox Christians honor that first generation of witnesses; the New Calendar feast is October 9.
Life
Saint James, son of Alphaeus, one of the Twelve Apostles, was the brother of the Evangelist Matthew. He heard the Lord's words and witnessed His miracles.
After Pentecost he travelled with the Apostle Andrew, preaching in Judea, Edessa, Gaza and Eleutheropolis, healing the sick and bringing many to salvation. He finished his apostolic work in the Egyptian city of Ostrachina, where he was crucified by the pagans.
Sources: OCA Lives of the Saints. Retold in our own words.
Traditional patronage
The cited source names no specific patronage.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take James (son of Alphaeus) as a patron when they bear the name James at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on October 9. Those who share his calling as a missionary also ask his prayers.
Prayer
O holy James (son of Alphaeus), pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.