Saint Jude Thaddeus
Memorial Day - October 28
Patron Saint of desperate situations, hospital workers, hospitals and
impossible or lost causes.
The name Thaddeus means sweetness or gentleness
of character. Saint Jude was nephew to Joseph and Mary, and close relative to
Jesus. He stood at Mary's side during the Crucifixion and anointed the Body of
Christ after his death. He was known as a healer and an exorcist, as well as the
writer of a canonical letter and an epistle. He was, at the last, a martyr,
beaten and beheaded for his steadfast and unwavering faith.
The principal reason he is known as the Patron saint of lost causes and
impossible situations is the fact that so many mistook his name for that
of Judas Escariot, who betrayed Jesus to the Romans. As a result, his
name and deeds were lost for many years before he was once again
restored to his rightful heritage as close relative and faithful
follower of Our Lord. |
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