July 25: Saint James the Greater

St. James the Greater
by El Greco (ca 1600)

History

James and his brother John were fisherman before Jesus walked into their lives. Not only would James become one of the twelve Apostles, he was one of Jesus’ closest friends, along with his brother and Simon Peter. Usually, James is called “James the Greater” because there was another apostle named James who was younger. But Jesus gave James and John the nickname, “Sons of Thunder.” James saw Jesus transfigured in glory, witnessed miracles and was called to stand by Jesus during His agonizing prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane the knight before He died. After Jesus returned to heaven, James helped the Church grow until he was murdered for being a Christian. 

Activity

What kind of men would get the nickname “Sons of Thunder”? Loud or quiet? Today, you can make a thunder tube. (Instructions adapted from Rachel Bales’ blog) 

Materials:

Empty potato chip can, packing tube or oatmeal container, etc.

Metal coil (about 18” long )

Glue gun

Decorative paper to cover the cylinder (or plain paper, stickers, crayons, etc.)

Tape

Scissors

Awl

Instructions:

1. An adult should use the awl (or scissors) to poke a small hole in the bottom of your can/tube/container.

2. Work a little of your metal coil into the hole. An adult can secure the coil into place using the glue gun. Let cool.

3. Cut the decorative paper to size and secure to the container with tape.

4. To make thunder, hold the canister with the spring hanging down and wiggle it gently. 

  

Saint James the Greater, pray for us!

More reading for parents:

Catholic Encyclopedia

Catholic Online

SPECIAL NOTE: Today is a special day of fasting and prayer for Christians who are facing persecution in the Middle East, especially Iraq. Literally, they are being threatened with death. Please give up at least on meal for them and focus your prayers during that meal time on the issue. Thank you!