- 28 October, 2026
Rome, 28 October 2026: How can ordinary people become powerful witnesses of God's love? Saints Simon and Jude, two of the Twelve Apostles chosen by Jesus Christ, dedicated their lives to proclaiming the Gospel and spreading the message of salvation. Remembered for their faith, courage and missionary zeal, they inspire Christians to remain steadfast in their beliefs and share the love of Christ with the world.
Feast Day: 28 October
Born: Dates and birthplaces uncertain; traditionally associated with Galilee
Died: Traditionally believed to have been martyred in the first century, possibly in Persia
Canonised By: No formal canonisation dates are recorded; venerated as early Christian apostles and martyrs
Known For: Being among the Twelve Apostles and spreading the Gospel through missionary work
Title: Apostles and Martyrs of the Early Church
(CLICK HERE to follow Catholic Connect and to stay updated with Catholic News & Content)
Saint Simon and Saint Jude were among the twelve disciples whom Jesus personally chose to continue His mission. Although the New Testament provides limited information about their early lives, their inclusion among the Apostles highlights their importance in the foundation of the Christian Church.
Saint Simon is known as Simon the Zealot or Simon the Cananaean. His title suggests a strong religious commitment, although the precise meaning of his association with the Zealots remains uncertain.
Saint Jude, also called Jude Thaddeus, is distinguished from Judas Iscariot, the apostle who betrayed Jesus. He is remembered as a faithful disciple who remained committed to Christ and His teachings.
Both apostles witnessed Jesus' ministry and were sent to proclaim the Kingdom of God. After Christ's Resurrection and Ascension, they joined the other disciples in continuing His mission.
Saint Jude is mentioned in the Gospel of John during the Last Supper. He asked Jesus why He would reveal Himself to His disciples rather than to the whole world. Jesus responded by teaching that those who love Him and keep His word will experience the presence of God.
This exchange reveals Jude's desire to understand Christ's mission more deeply.
Saint Simon, meanwhile, is named in the Gospel accounts and in the Acts of the Apostles. Though Scripture records few personal details about him, his place among the Twelve demonstrates his commitment to following Jesus.
According to Christian tradition, Simon and Jude travelled to different regions to preach the Gospel. Later accounts associate their missionary work with Mesopotamia and Persia, where they are believed to have suffered martyrdom.
These accounts differ regarding the precise locations and circumstances of their deaths, and historians cannot verify every detail. Nevertheless, the Church honours both apostles for their courageous witness to Christ.
Their shared feast day reflects their traditional association in missionary work and their enduring importance in Christian history.
Saints Simon and Jude are traditionally believed to have died as martyrs during the first century. Their relics have long been venerated in Rome, particularly at St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.
As early Christian apostles, they are honoured through the Church's longstanding tradition of veneration rather than a modern formal canonisation process.
Their feast is celebrated annually on 28 October, reminding Catholics of their dedication to the Gospel and their role in the early Church.
Their lives encourage Catholics to remain faithful during difficulties, seek a deeper understanding of Christ's teachings and share the Gospel with courage. Saint Simon reminds believers to channel their zeal into faithful service, while Saint Jude inspires hope and perseverance during seemingly impossible situations.
Saints Simon and Jude continue to inspire Christians through their example of discipleship, missionary service and steadfast faith. Saint Jude is especially invoked as the patron saint of hopeless or desperate causes, offering spiritual encouragement to people facing difficult circumstances.
Their lives remind us that even those whose stories are not widely recorded can make a lasting contribution to the Church through faithful service to God.
Saints Simon and Jude, pray for us!
To know about more saints and Catholic feast days, please visit the spiritual section.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
Saints Simon and Jude, Saints Simon and Jude feast day, Saint Simon the Zealot, Saint Jude Thaddeus, Catholic saints of October, Twelve Apostles, patron saint of hopeless causes, early Christian martyrs, Christian missionary saints, Catholic prayer, faith and perseverance
© 2026 CATHOLIC CONNECT POWERED BY ATCONLINE LLP
