The Church honors the memory of Great-Martyr James of Persia and Saint Nathanael.
Saint James was born into a wealthy family in Bethlava, Persia, in the 4th century AD. Although he was raised as a Christian, he was influenced by his friend, the Persian emperor Izdegerd, to abandon his faith.
However, the earnest prayers and pleas from his mother and wife, who warned him that they would no longer wish to see him if he renounced his faith in Christ, spurred a change in his heart.
Through their powerful words and God’s grace, James realized his mistake. Seeking more than just to turn away from pagan practices, he boldly professed his faith in Christ before the emperor. His confession led to severe torture and eventually death by the sword.
The story of Saint James beautifully illustrates the transformative power of repentance, which brings not only forgiveness but also holiness and communion with the Triune God.
Source: Church of Cyprus