Homily: Feast of Phillip and James

Feast of Phillip and James (John 14:6-14) “Pillars of Faith”

Phillip and James do not have major roles in the Gospel narrative. Little is known of James. We have James the greater (brother of John) listed as an apostle and then we have another James simply called “the lesser.”

Phillip is mentioned in several places. But he seems to make statements of faith. Just like in the reading for Mass. “Show us the Father and this will be enough for us.” When he first meets Jesus (Jn 1:43ff) he makes a statement of faith as well. Jesus tells Phillip to follow him. He immediately responds.

He proves himself as an apostle because he immediately invites Nathanial to meet Jesus. An apostle is one who introduces others to Jesus.

Both James and Phillip joined the missionary efforts of the early church. Phillip is said to have preached the Gospel in Phrygia and was martyred in Hierapolis. His remains were taken to Rome where he is buried in the Church of the Twelve Apostles.

James the Less was believed to have been clubbed to death by order of the Sanhedrin in 62 A.D. so he was one of the first martyrs of the church. His mother was one of the women who stood at the foot of the cross while Jesus was dying. His family could have been relatives of Jesus. Certainly, they were prominent in the first days the church existed.

We do not have a lot of information about these who men, but there is only one thing that we need to know which was that they were martyrs for the faith. The Martyrs were the first people who were considered saints. Martyrs always achieve salvation. They exhibit the courage and fortitude we all strive for.

Reflection Questions:

1.    What other apostles are not talked about much in scripture? Does that mean they are unimportant?

2.   Who is my favorite Apostle? Why?

 Dear Parishioners,

           This Sunday we will have a special celebration. We will have one of our First Communions. When we see others having this experience it might remind us of our First Communion. Were we in awe of what was happening.

          The First Communicants are so excited. To receive communion is a special privilege. It is too bad that this supernatural event seems to become routine.

          Please pray for the children that they will maintain their great desire to be close to Jesus.

          May Our Lady pray for us,

          Fr. Mark