St. Jude
(Apostle of Those in Need)

St. Jude, one of the twelve apostles, bears the surname “Thaddeus” (meaning loving), which distinguishes him from Judas Iscariot, the disciple who betrayed Jesus. St. Jude Thaddeus prays to our Lord to help and protect us in difficult and desperate circumstances. From the earliest times he has been invoked by the faithful when there was urgent need, and his intervention has often been miraculous.

Feast Day:
October 28

Patron Saint:
Patron of most difficult and even hopeless causes. St. Jude is also invoked by those who are tortured by temptations against purity.

Images of Jude:
St. Jude is pictured wearing a Medal with the image of our Lord. The medal represents the healing power of Christ. The flame on his head represents the Holy Spirit. St. Jude is also portrayed with a Club in his hand. This recalls his martyrdom for the one true faith, the Holy Catholic Church.

Writings:
St. Jude wrote ( Epistle of St. Jude) in the New Testament around the year 62 AD. In his Epistle St. Jude denounces heretics and warns Christians against the seduction of false teachings. He foretells that false teachers, leading wicked lives and ridiculing religion would arise. St. Jude speaks of the judgment and punishment which would be fall these heretics. He describes the punishment similar to that given to the wicked angels or the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah.

The Epistle encourages Christians to remain steadfast in faith and prayer; it also urges the faithful to convert the heretics with loving correction. These instructions are very practical for our own time when false teaching and immorality are widespread.

Prayer:
St. Jude, glorious apostle, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the name of the traitor has caused you to be forgotten by many. But the Church honors and invokes you universally as the patron of hopeless cases. Pray for me and come to my assistance. I will thank God for the graces bestowed upon you, and will always be grateful