James the Great

Today is the feast of the Apostle James the Greater. He went to the end of the known world for the love of Christ and souls.

On January 2, 40 AD James had made it as far as Zaragoza Spain, where he was preaching the Gospel - but with little success. Feeling very defeated he sat down on the bank of the Ebro River, dejected. At this time, Mary, the Mother of God appeared to St. James, standing on a pillar of Marble and she said to him, “James, the faith you establish here will be more firm and last longer than the pillar I stand upon.” Do not be discouraged and do not give up. I am with you and will help you. James arose, preached the Gospel, won many converts to Christ and the faith he established in Spain endures to this day. To remember the visit and promise of the Virgin Mary, the first Marian shrine was built around the pillar on which She appeared. This bilocation of Mary came to be known as Our Lady of the Pillar in Zaragoza Spain in 40 AD. Ten years before Mary was assumed into heaven. 

If you feel defeated, dejected, or confused, or if you feel overwhelmed by life or temptations – Jump into the Arms of Mary - Entrust yourself to Her she will strengthen you to be as strong and unshakeable as that pillar which stands to this day.