Philip and James – apostles

Philip came from the same town as Peter and Andrew, Bethsaida in Galilee. He responded to the call of Jesus and then went and told Nathaniel (John 1. 45). Most of the references to Philip are in St John’s Gospel: at the feeding of the five thousand (John 6. 4 – 7); in Jerusalem at the Passover when Greeks ask to see Jesus (John 12. 20 – 22); during the Last Supper when he asks Jesus to show them the Father (John 14. 8 – 9).

Much less is known of James, son of Alphaeus, known as James the Lesser.

They are celebrated together because their relics were brought to Rome to the church
then dedicated to them on this day in 560 CE.

Almighty Father,
whom truly to know is eternal life:
teach us to know your Son Jesus Christ
as the way, the truth and the life;
that we may follow the steps
of your holy apostles Philip and James,
and walk steadfastly in the way
that leads to your glory;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen