Cousin of Jesus, St. Jude Thaddeus was the brother of St. James the Less, and his only words were recorded at the Last Supper where he said, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?” His parents were Clopas and one of the Marys who was at Christ’s Passion. After the ascension, he preached with St. Simon in Syria, Samaria, Persia, Lybia, and Mesopotamia, and cast demons out of pagan idols. In the year 62 AD, he returned to Jerusalem and assisted in the election of his brother as bishop of Jerusalem. Because of his name, he was often confused with Judas Iscariot, and those who tried to spread the devotion to this apostle were seen as working for… a lost cause.
CHALLENGE
St. Jude Thaddeus is regarded by many as the author of the canonical epistle that bears his name. It is a message against false teachers and exhorts the faithful to stay true to the teaching of the Apostles. He also instructs the faithful on how to deal with those who have fallen away from the faith. Today, read the Epistle of Jude. Then pray for his intercession for a “lost cause” who has fallen away from the faith.
All Saints’ Day is right around the corner! The Saint Challenge restarts on All Saints’ Day, and a print copy of The Saint Challenge is a great companion for a year of challenges and a lifetime of living the faith. Buy your copy today then challenge a friend to join you!
