This St. James the Greater Plaque depicts the Apostle James, the son of Zebedee. James is “the Greater” to distinguish him from the Apostle James “the Lesser” (probably meaning “shorter”). James was the brother of John, the “beloved disciple.” This is a most fitting gift for a confirmation, first communion, birthday, and the feast day of St. James the Greater Apostle on July 25th.
A Solid Bronze Plaque in Three Sizes
Available in three sizes – small (p20k – 2 x 1.75 inches), medium (p13m – 4 x 3.5 inches) and large (p49g – 7.5 x 6.75 inches), this plaque has a notch on the back to ensure easy hanging on the wall in home or office. This solid bronze plaque was conceived and realized in Germany by a master goldsmith of world renown. This plaque is the perfect gift for that special “James” or “Jim” in your life!
El Camino de Santiago de Compostela
Saint James (in Spanish, Santiago) is the patron saint of Spain. According to ancient local tradition, the Virgin Mary appeared to James while he was preaching the Gospel in Iberia. Afterwards, Saint James returned to Judea where he was beheaded by King Herod Agrippa I in 44 a.d. According to tradition, his remains were miraculously transported back to Spain where they are now enshrined in the Church of Santiago de Compostela. The pilgrimage route to this shrine – El camino de Santiago de Compostela – has been traveled by pilgrims since 900 A.D. The scallop shell (depicted here on the pilgrim staff of St. James) is worn by pilgrims on their way to this shrine. The shell is both a symbol of baptism (as used by St. John the Baptist) and as a symbol of pilgrimage since thirsty pilgrims used the shell to draw water to drink as they made their way to the shrine. (For a modern depiction of the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, see the moving film The Way by Emilio Estevez, which has Martin Sheen making this pilgrimage as a bereaved father.)
