James, son of Alphaeus, was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He is mentioned in the New Testament and venerated as a saint in the Christian tradition.
Origins: James was the son of Alphaeus and, according to tradition, was born in Galilee. He is sometimes called "James the Less" to distinguish him from James the son of Zebedee, the brother of John.
Calling: Like the other apostles, James was called by Jesus to follow him. He became one of Christ's closest disciples and shared in his ministry.
Apostolic work: After the Resurrection of Jesus, James went on preaching and spreading Christianity. Tradition holds that he preached in various regions, including Judea and possibly other lands.
Death: Several accounts of his death exist. According to some sources he was martyred for his faith, though the precise details remain unclear.
Veneration: James, son of Alphaeus, is honored as a saint in the Orthodox, Catholic, and other Christian traditions. His feast is kept on October 9 (New Style) in the Orthodox Church and on May 3 in the Catholic Church.