Saint Jude Thaddeus

Jude Thaddeus was one of the twelve apostles, a relative of Jesus according to some ancient traditions, and author of the short Letter of Jude in the New Testament. Because his name resembled that of Judas Iscariot, the traitor, Christians for centuries rarely prayed to him, and a popular explanation holds that this is why he became the saint of "forgotten" and desperate causes: those who turned to him found him ready to help.

He is usually shown with a medallion of the face of Christ on his chest, recalling an ancient legend of the image of Jesus sent to King Abgar of Edessa, with a flame over his head for Pentecost and a club or axe for his martyrdom. Saint Bridget of Sweden and Saint Bernard were among those who promoted his devotion. In the twentieth century it spread enormously in the Americas.

In Mexico, San Judas Tadeo is one of the most popular saints. On the 28th of each month, and above all on October 28, tens of thousands go to the Church of San Hipólito in Mexico City, many dressed in green and white, carrying statues of San Juditas to be blessed.

In the United States, the comedian Danny Thomas, after praying to Saint Jude, founded St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis in 1962. The Saint Jude novena is a favorite prayer in times of crisis.