James was a Persian who lived in the 5th century. He was a great favorite of King Yezdigerd I. When the king began to persecute Christians, James did not have the courage to confess his faith, was afraid of losing the friendship and gave up his faith.
When the king died, James’ family encouraged him to change his ways and renew his faith which had a strong impact on him.
The new king sent for him but this time, James hid nothing. “I am a Christian,” he said. The king accused him of being ungrateful for the honors his father had bestowed him. “And where is your father now?” he calmly replied.
The king and his council condemned James to torture and death. James said, “This death which appears so dreadful is very little for the purchase of eternal life.”
He was executed by having his body cut apart into 28 pieces, beginning with his fingers, hence the surname “Intercisus” meaning to cut to pieces. He was then beheaded. All the while he kept declaring his faith.
He is the patron saint of lost vocations and torture victims.
His feast day is November 27.
For God’s Glory.
The Church of Saint James Intercisus situated in the Armenian Quarter of Jerusalem is dedicated to him.
