Why do we celebrate a feast day for Saint James the Great?

Saint James was one of Jesus’ first Apostles. Like all the Apostles, the Church gratefully celebrates his 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 (Luke 6:48-49, Mt. 28:18-20, 1 Cor. 3:11, Eph 2:19-20, Rev. 21:14).