James, St - there are several different James’s in the New Testament. James was one of the Apostles, and the brother of St John

Jehovah – this is a form of the Hebrew name for God – which is more properly translated ‘Yahweh’

Jehovah’s Witness – a sect of American origin. They are not in communion with any mainstream Christian church. They deny the doctrine of the Trinity and believe that only members of their sect will inherit the Kingdom of God.

Jerusalem – an important city for Jews, Christians and Muslims. It’s important to Christians because it’s the place of Christ’s death and Resurrection and the birth of the Church.

Jesus – this name, which in Hebrew is Joshua, means literally Jehovah (the Lord) saves. By God’s command (Luke 1:31; Matthew 1:21) it is the name given to the infant Christ, the saviour of humankind.

Jesus Christ – The Church teaches that the God the Father sent his Son to reconcile the world to himself. He was made a human being and died for our sins; he was raised from death and lifted up to the throne of God, and that he will come again as a our judge and saviour.

Jesus Prayer – a popular prayer of the Eastern Orthodox Church with the simple repetition of the words, ‘Jesus, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’

John, St – one of the twelve apostles, and whose name is attributed to the fourth gospel, three letters and the final book of the Bible. His is symbolized by an eagle.

John the Baptist, St – He is the one who prepared the way for Jesus. He preached a baptism of repentance for forgiveness of sins. Jesus came to him at the River Jordan to be baptised. He was arrested and beheaded by Herod.

Joseph, St – the husband of Mary and foster father of Jesus. He was engaged to Mary and when he heard about Mary’s pregnancy he was going to divorce her quietly. But he was told by God in a dream that he should marry her. After the stories about Jesus’ birth and childhood, we don’t hear anything more about St Joseph, which has led many to think that he had died by this time.

Judgement – see Last Judgement