St. James Intercisus

St. James Intercisus was a Persian noble and court official who renounced Christ under pressure but later repented and bravely suffered a gruesome martyrdom for his faith during a Christian persecution.

St. James Intercisus, whose name means “cut into pieces,” was born in the late 4th century in the Persian Empire. A prominent Christian and high-ranking officer in the court of King Yazdegerd I of Persia, he faced a dramatic crisis of faith when the king began persecuting Christians. Out of fear, James publicly renounced his Christian faith, retaining his social position and favor at court.

However, this apostasy deeply grieved his devout Christian family—especially his mother and wife—who rebuked him for denying Christ. Their words pierced his conscience and led him to repentance. As the persecution intensified under Yazdegerd’s successor, Bahram V, James openly proclaimed his return to the Christian faith. He was immediately arrested and brought before the king, where he courageously refused to renounce Christ again.

Because of his prominent status, James’s defiance infuriated the king. He was sentenced to a particularly brutal execution designed to terrorize Christians. His body was dismembered limb by limb—each joint and limb severed slowly, hence the name "Intercisus"—before he was finally beheaded. Despite the pain, he remained resolute and prayerful throughout the ordeal, professing his faith until the end.

St. James Intercisus became one of the most venerated martyrs of the Eastern Churches, especially in Persia and Byzantium. His relics were highly honored, and his story spread throughout the Christian world, becoming a symbol of repentance, courage, and martyrdom. Churches were later dedicated to him in Jerusalem, Rome, and Braga, Portugal.

Feast Day

27-11-

Birth Date

--4th century

Died Date

27-11-421

Canonised Date

--N/A

Braga, Portugal

St. James Intercisus, you gave your life in witness to Christ through unimaginable suffering. Pray for us that we may remain faithful in trials and never be ashamed of our faith. Strengthen us to follow your example of courage and perseverance. Amen.
ST. JAMES INTERCISUS

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ST. JAMES INTERCISUS

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