A humble chapel it began. This is the Capela São Judas Tadeu. But its story is far from humble. Established in 1940 the parish of São Judas Tadeu was born. It wasn’t a grand affair. A simple rented hall on Avenida Felício Fagundes served as the first chapel. Masses were held there. Other sacraments were also given. The branches of a tree formed the bell tower. An old bell summoned the faithful.
Father João Buescher became the first parish priest. He was a man of action. He found land. He built a temporary church. This replaced the makeshift chapel. But he didn’t stop there. São Judas Tadeu was largely unknown at the time. Father Buescher changed that. He spread the saint’s story. He had many prints made. These showed the saint’s image and prayers. He personally distributed them. He did this at bus stops and on trams. He went to Praça da Sé. He even visited families in central neighborhoods.
He needed help building the church. He used this opportunity. He publicized the patron saint. São Judas Tadeu lacked an image. Father João Buescher commissioned a wooden sculpture. The sculptor fell ill. The patron saint’s feast day was near. A plaster cast became the official image. It’s the one in the Jabaquara church. Devotion grew. A new church was needed.
In 1963 construction began on a new church. It is known as the “New Church”. It features modern lines. It is large and functional. Inside it’s a circle within a square. Its dome rises 22 meters. By 1980 it had sound lighting and paint. The architecture directs your attention to the altar. It’s a place of sacrifice. The community gathers. They celebrate Jesus Christ. It is a place of communion with God.
The Capela São Judas Tadeu stands as a testament. It stands as a testament to the devotion of a community. It is a place where faith took root. It grew from a humble beginning into a sanctuary. It continues to inspire hope and faith. It does so for thousands of devotees every year. São Judas Tadeu’s story. It is a story of faith perseverance and community. This is the legacy of the Capela São Judas Tadeu.