St. Simon and St. Jude, remembered together on October 28, are two of the least-known apostles, yet tradition has long linked their names and their missionary witness. Both appear in the New Testament lists of the twelve, with Simon distinguished by the title “the Zealot,” though it is unclear whether this referred to his former association with the Jewish Zealot movement or simply his fervent devotion to God’s law. Jude, sometimes called Thaddeus, is remembered in popular devotion as the patron saint of desperate or lost causes. Ancient tradition holds that Simon and Jude carried the gospel to Persia and Armenia, where they were martyred together, their steadfast witness sealed in blood. The church honors them for their faithfulness, zeal, and courage, reminding us that even the least known disciples can bear lasting fruit in God’s mission.
Deuteronomy 32:1-4
Psalm 119:89-96
Ephesians 2:13-22
John 15:17-27
