SAINT JOHN THE APOSTLE was the son of Zebedee and Salome, and brother of James, another of the twelve apostles. Christian tradition holds that Saint John had a prominent position in the Apostolic Body. He was very close to Jesus. John alone remained near Jesus at the foot of the cross on Calvary with Jesus' mother, Mary. He is identified as "the disciple whom Jesus loved." He is the patron saint of booksellers, editors, friendships, and painters. His feast day is celebrated September 26.