James the Less

James the Less, a significant figure in early Christianity, is often referred to by various names such as "the Minor," "the Little," "the Lesser," or "the Younger." These titles serve to distinguish him from his counterpart, James the Great, also known as "James the Elder." The designation "the Less" is not indicative of his importance but rather signifies his younger or shorter stature.

Traditionally, James the Less is commemorated alongside St. Philip in the Western Christian calendars. His feast day was originally observed on the first of May in the Roman Catholic Church until nineteen fifty-five, when it was shifted to the eleventh of May to make room for the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker. Subsequent revisions of the calendar have placed his feast on the third of May, although many other denominations, including the Church of England, continue to celebrate it on the first of May.

Jerome identifies James the Less as the same individual known as "James the Just" and "James, brother of Jesus" in biblical texts. This identification suggests that he may have been a cousin of Jesus. Additionally, Papias of Hierapolis connects him with "James, son of Alphaeus," one of the Twelve Apostles, further solidifying his role within the early Christian community.