Saint James TG

St James TG History

The Observance of Saint James TG is an annual religious celebration that honours the life and work of St. James the Greater, one of Jesus Christ’s twelve apostles. This commemoration intends to appreciate the teachings and the pilgrimage of St. James and promote his core values of love, mercy, and compassion. The Observance is known for its rich cultural activities, engaging families and communities in religious practices, and celebrating togetherness among the devotees.

St. James TG is believed to have been the first apostle to suffer martyrdom, and his remains were supposedly transported to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, thereby becoming one of the most famous Christian pilgrimage sites. New Zealand, being a multicultural nation with a significant Christian population, acknowledges St. James TG as an influential figure in religious history. Many people in New Zealand resonate with the values and teachings of St. James, and some have been inspired to embark on the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, Spain, as part of their spiritual journey.

The Observance of Saint James TG in New Zealand is marked by various religious and cultural activities within the Christian community. The day is often observed with special masses and prayers in churches, as well as gatherings and shared meals among family and friends. Although the celebration is not a public holiday in New Zealand, it remains an essential date for many Christians in the country to come together in prayer and devotion. Saint James TG is typically commemorated each year on July 25th, providing an opportunity for New Zealanders to deepen their faith and express gratitude for the apostle's teachings.

Saint James TG facts

• New Testament readers first encounter James mending nets with his father, Zebedee, and his brother John. They were as dejected as their friends Simon and Andrew that they had caught nothing after a long night of fishing. Jesus directs Simon and Andrew to fish on the other side of the boat, and their nets nearly burst with all of the fish. They followed Jesus, then James and John accepted his invitation as well (Matthew 4:21-22, Mark: 1:19-20).
  
• Legend has it that James evangelized Spain. He is the patron saint of that country. Although it is unlikely that his remains are really there, Spanish Catholics believe his body is entombed in Compostela (northwestern Spain).
• Saint James is also believed to have traveled to other parts of the world to spread the Gospel, including Egypt, Ethiopia, and Spain.
• He was the son of Zebedee and Salome and the brother of Saint John the Evangelist.

In the News and Trending in NZ for Saint James TG

Top things to do in NZ for St James TG

• James is the patron saint of laborers. He received the designation because when Jesus called the disciple to follow him, James was working hard to mend his nets. Honor someone who works hard on his feast day in remembrance of St. James.
• Go on the ancient pilgrimage to Compostela, Spain, to commemorate St. James on his feast day.
• Visit the Te Papa Museum. The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa is an iconic destination showcasing the country's art, culture, and natural history.
• Read more about the history of our country with the novel A History of New Zealand by Michael King.