Ever wonder why so many people in Mexico City are devoted to San Judas Tadeo? Here at the capilla san judas tadeo Sculpture, we delve into the captivating story behind this beloved saint.
The veneration of Judas Thaddaeus has grown significantly in Mexico since the mid-20th century. This is especially true here in Mexico City. While many churches honor him, the San Hipólito Church near the historic center remains a focal point. For centuries, it was the only church with dedicated space for this saint.
Although officially named for San Hipólito, the image of San Judas Tadeo now graces the main altar. San Hipólito Church and other locations draw thousands of devotees, particularly on the 28th of each month. October 28th, his feast day, sees the largest crowds.
Officially, San Judas Tadeo is associated with difficult circumstances. However, in recent times, he has also become linked with delinquents. The belief is that he hears the petitions of both the good and the bad. Throughout Mexico City, especially in poorer neighborhoods, you’ll find countless street shrines dedicated to San Judas Tadeo.
But who was San Judas Tadeo? Commonly known as Saint Jude, he was one of the Twelve Apostles. A relative of Jesus, he was among his earliest followers and later became an evangelist. Tradition holds that he was martyred alongside Simon the Zealot, decapitated with a hatchet.
Depictions of San Judas Tadeo in Mexico often include a medallion bearing Christ’s image. This symbolizes his role in evangelism. He also carries a staff and a hatchet, reminders of his martyrdom. He is seen as a direct intercessor to Jesus Christ, a saint to turn to in desperate situations. Many miracles are attributed to him. People often seek his help with personal, legal, work, and family problems. He is also invoked to find lost objects. Sometimes, the plea is simply for the situation not to worsen.
Devotion to San Judas Tadeo is widespread in Mexico City and other areas, especially among the poor. They often affectionately call him San Juditas. His devotees include police officers, truck drivers, manual laborers, and even some from the upper classes. College students, politicians, businesspeople, and artists also seek his intercession. The saint’s popularity continues to grow, particularly among young people. His images appear at secular events for youth, especially on the 28th of the month.
Interestingly, San Judas Tadeo has also gained popularity among drug abusers and delinquents. Some even petition him to help them get away with crimes. According to some religious figures, this association stems from the illegal copying of his image from Italian prints. These copies reversed the hand in which he held his staff. Since the left often symbolizes evil in Catholicism, folk belief portrays Judas Tadeo as a saint for both good and bad. The idea is that sometimes the “good” can act worse than the “bad.” Some devotees of San Judas Tadeo may also venerate Santa Muerte and Jesús Malverde.
Despite these associations, the Catholic Church supports the veneration of Judas Thaddaeus. It views it as a manifestation of folk religion in Latin America. The archdiocese celebrates his feast day. It clarifies that Judas Thaddaeus is not a saint for delinquency or drug trafficking. Nor is he related to Santa Muerte in any way. The Church considers these beliefs incompatible with its doctrine.
Here at the capilla san judas tadeo Sculpture, you can reflect on the complexities of faith and devotion. Remember that San Judas Tadeo represents hope in difficult times for people from all walks of life.