On May 3rd, the Church celebrates the Feast of Sts. Philip and James, two of the twelve apostles chosen by Christ to follow him and to spread the Gospel. 

Though their backgrounds and the work they did after the Resurrection was different, they were united in their mission, the mission to bring the hope of Christ to the world. Their witness reminds us that each of us are also called to serve, to proclaim the Good News, and to put our faith into action.

A Call to Witness

St. Philip is remembered for his deep faith and eagerness to bring others to Christ. In the Gospel of John, (1:46) he tells Nathanael,” Come and see” , inviting Nathanael to encounter Jesus personally as he has. He went out as a missionary to share the power and hope of Christ’s Resurrection throughout Greece and Syria.

St. James was called the Less because he was younger than James, the son of Zebede. He was also called James the Just.  He became the leader of the early Church in Jerusalem, bringing together Jews and Gentiles in this young Church of believers. Steadfast in his faith, the first Bishop of Jerusalem, St. James gave his life sharing his faith

Faith in Action Through Mission

The work of Mission Doctors echoes the call of Sts. Philip and James. Like the apostles, Catholic doctors, dentists, nurse practitioners, and physician assistant follow St. Philip’s invitation to “Come and see”.  Now, also following Jesus, they bring compassionate, life-saving care to communities in need. Whether serving for a short-term mission or dedicating years to medical service abroad, these healthcare professionals embody the healing ministry of Christ.