“Saint-Jude, saint of hope”. These words echo through the Sanctuaire Saint-Jude, a place where cries of help meet acknowledgments of favors received. Here, in the heart of Montreal, stands a testament to faith. It is devotion that has grown over centuries.
The story of Sanctuaire Saint-Jude is deeply intertwined with the Dominican Friars of Canada. For over 60 years, they’ve championed devotion to Saint Jude. Their ministry began humbly on Laval Street in Montreal. It later moved to the former St. Agnes Irish church on Saint Denis Street. The Dominicans transformed it into a shrine. They spread devotion to Our Lady of the Rosary and Saint Jude.
However, in 2007, the Dominicans faced a difficult decision. A decrease in religious personnel forced them to sell the buildings on Saint Denis Street. But the spirit of Saint-Jude could not be contained. The Saint-Jude Apostolic Works relocated. They found a new home at the convent of Saint-Albert-le-Grand. This is on Côte-Saint-Catherine Road, near the University of Montreal. A “Saint Jude and Rosary Oratory” was established. People could continue offering prayers to God. They prayed through the intercession of Saint-Jude.
The devotion to Saint Jude isn’t new. Its roots go back to the 12th century. Saint Bernard honored a relic of this powerful Apostle. He sought Saint Jude’s continued assistance. St. Brigid of Sweden also held Saint Jude in high regard. She received advice from the Lord. She was told to “Pray Saint-Jude with trust.” He is faithful to his name Thaddeus. He is gentle and kind. He will be swift to help. In the sixteenth century, Blessed Colomba of Rietti dedicated her life to spreading his worship.
Today, Saint Jude is honored across Europe. He has millions of followers in the United States, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Nigeria. Here in Canada, the Dominicans continue his work. They maintain the Saint-Jude Oratory. A vast correspondence network connects people. It links French and English Canada, parts of America, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Haiti.
Saint Jude is invoked in desperate situations. He is known as the saint of hope. Letters and prayer intentions arrive daily. They carry cries for help, expressions of gratitude and donations. They are thanksgiving for blessings received.
According to the Gospels, Jude was a close relative and friend of Jesus. He lived with Jesus during his ministry. Jude was one of the twelve Apostles. To avoid confusion with Judas Iscariot, he was called Judas Thaddeus. Thaddeus means abundant, gentle, merciful, kind in Syriac, and courageous in Aramaic. After the Pentecost, he preached far and wide. He traveled to Palestine, Arabia, Armenia, and Mesopotamia. With the Apostle Simon, he evangelized Persia. They were both clubbed to death there. Saint-Jude is often depicted holding a club. It is a reminder of his martyrdom.
As you stand here at Sanctuaire Saint-Jude, remember the countless prayers. Remember the hopes entrusted to this place. May Saint-Jude, faithful intercessor, present your intentions to the Almighty. May he increase your faith and draw you closer to God. With Saint Jude, give thanks for God’s countless blessings. Amen.