Who Is Saint Jude? The Patron of Impossible Causes and How to Pray to Him

Sep 25, 2025

When facing desperate situations, many Catholics turn to a powerful intercessor known as Saint Jude Thaddeus—the Patron Saint of Impossible Causes. Whether you're battling illness, facing financial struggles, dealing with broken relationships, or experiencing spiritual despair, Saint Jude is a trusted friend in times of crisis.

But who exactly was Saint Jude? Why is he known for the impossible? And how can we pray to him with faith and devotion?

Let’s explore the story, miracles, and powerful intercession of one of the Church’s most beloved saints.

Who Was Saint Jude Thaddeus?

Saint Jude Thaddeus was one of the twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, often referred to simply as Saint Jude. He is sometimes referred to as Jude of James or Judas Thaddeus to distinguish him from Judas Iscariot, the Apostle who betrayed Jesus.

Saint Jude was a relative of Jesus—traditionally believed to be His cousin—and a faithful follower who preached the Gospel across Mesopotamia, Libya, and Persia.

Feast Day: October 28

Symbol: Club, flame above the head (representing Pentecost), or an image of Jesus known as the Image of Edessa

Patronage: Impossible causes, hopeless situations, desperate cases

What Is Saint Jude Known For?

Saint Jude is known for his powerful intercession in the most difficult and desperate of circumstances. His name became associated with lost causes because few early Christians prayed to him, fearing confusion with Judas Iscariot. As a result, devotion to him grew precisely because he was seen as a last resort—and God responded with countless miracles.

According to tradition, Saint Jude performed many miracles during his missionary journeys, healing the sick and casting out demons. Today, thousands of Catholics around the world testify to answered prayers and divine intervention after invoking his aid.

He is also credited with writing the Epistle of Jude, a concise yet powerful letter found in the New Testament, which emphasizes faith, perseverance, and the truth of the Gospel.

How to Pray to Saint Jude

Praying to Saint Jude is not superstition—it’s a heartfelt appeal to a friend of Jesus who intercedes for us in Heaven. Here’s how to begin:

1. Make Your Intention Clear

Speak honestly with Saint Jude about your needs. Whether you're seeking healing, employment, peace, or reconciliation, entrust your intention to him.

2. Use a Traditional Prayer or Novena

Here is a popular version of the prayer to Saint Jude:

"Most holy Apostle, Saint Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the Church honors and invokes you universally as the patron of hopeless cases and things almost despaired of. Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone..."

You can also pray a 9-day novena, which includes special prayers, Scripture readings, and petitions.

3. Incorporate Devotional Items

Light a Saint Jude candle as a sign of your prayer and trust.
Wear a Saint Jude medal or necklace to keep his protection close.
Display a Saint Jude image or statue in your prayer corner.

4. Be Patient and Trust

Saint Jude's intercession doesn't guarantee instant results, but his prayers are powerful and effective. Many faithful individuals have experienced miraculous outcomes, while others have received peace, clarity, or the strength to bear their cross.

CTA: Deepen your devotion with a Saint Jude prayer kit, medal, or handmade candle from our Saint Jude Collection. Let his presence be a daily reminder that no cause is truly lost.

Why Do People Pray to Saint Jude?

People pray to Saint Jude when they feel hopeless, overwhelmed, or forgotten. His legacy as the saint of impossible causes provides comfort and encouragement to those facing situations that seem beyond human help.

"Pray, hope, and don’t worry." – St. Padre Pio

Saint Jude reminds us that God never abandons us. Through him, we are invited to surrender our burdens and receive God's mercy and grace, even when all seems lost.

Saint Jude Devotion Today

From shrines in Chicago and New Orleans to prayer cards found in wallets and purses, Saint Jude continues to inspire devotion worldwide.

At Guadalupe Gifts, we honor his legacy by offering handcrafted Saint Jude medals, candles, and artwork, all designed to deepen your connection with this mighty intercessor.

Explore our Saint Jude Collection to find:

Sterling silver and gold-plated Saint Jude necklaces
Handmade statues and prayer plaques
Devotional candles made in small artisan batches

CTA: Shop the full collection now and find the perfect Catholic gift for someone facing difficulty—or for your own sacred space.

Final Thoughts

If you're standing at the edge of despair, Saint Jude is already praying for you. He brings your heartache before the throne of God and reminds us that even in the darkest moment, hope is not lost.

Let us call upon him with faith, love, and confidence—and trust that the God of miracles still works through His saints.