When the Homily is about Immunology

The Adelphotheos

Today is my nameday. Saint James, the Adelphotheos, the Brother of God. I really like this title - in similar fashion to our Lady's title (Theotokos), it brings, almost confrontationally to our mind, the Incarnation. Since the Church does not affirm, and never has affirmed that St. James was a blood relation to Jesus, the title is more a testimony than a representation of literal fact. Anyway, you can read more about St. James here.

Why not take sometime today and read his epistle. The Church in her wisdom included it in the canon...numerous reformers would not have. The Apostle's emphasis on works is still today a stumbling block to "faith alone" theology and thus inspires some very laudable interpretive song and dance numbers.

You embraced the Gospel as a Disciple of the Lord;
As a martyr you did not betray it, O Righteous One!
As God's brother you have boldness before Him;
As a faithful Bishop it is yours to intercede for us.
Beseech Christ God that our souls may be saved.