Saint Alphaeus

Biography

Saint Alphaeus, also known as Cleophas, was a significant figure in early Christianity as the father of Saint James the Less, one of the twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ. Alphaeus is mentioned in Matthew 10:3, which identifies James as "the son of Alphaeus." Unfortunately, very little information about Saint Alphaeus has survived, and his life remains largely a mystery. While his name appears in biblical texts, there are no specific accounts or narratives that detail his life or his contribution to the early Christian community. However, Saint Alphaeus is recognized for his steadfast faith and dedication to the Christian teachings. As a confessor of the faith, Alphaeus is believed to have proclaimed and defended the Gospel during a time when Christianity faced persecution and suppression. His commitment to sharing and preserving the teachings of Christ distinguishes him as a pillar of the early Christian community. Due to the scarcity of information regarding Saint Alphaeus, there is no known representation or symbolism associated with him. His absence from widely recognized religious artwork or iconography further highlights the limited knowledge available concerning his life and deeds. In terms of his official recognition by the Catholic Church, Saint Alphaeus was canonized before the establishment of the formal canonization process. He belongs to the pre-congregation era, which refers to the time before the Congregation for the Causes of Saints was established in the 16th century. Therefore, his canonization falls outside the formalized procedures followed by the Church in later centuries. Saint Alphaeus is celebrated and honored on the liturgical calendar on May 26th. This feast day serves as a remembrance of his role as the father of Saint James the Less and as a faithful follower of Christ. While Saint Alphaeus does not possess a specific patronage or a designated attribute, his existence and association with the Apostles and early Christianity offer inspiration for individuals seeking guidance and intercession in matters related to faith, family, and devotion to God. In summary, Saint Alphaeus, also known as Cleophas, was the father of Saint James the Less, one of the Apostles of Jesus Christ. Although little is known about his life and accomplishments, his recognition as a confessor of the faith and as a dedicated follower of Christ highlights his significance within early Christianity. Saint Alphaeus is celebrated on May 26th and continues to inspire believers in their faith journeys.