St. Simon the Zealot is distinguished from Simon Peter by the title Zealot, which suggests his fervent devotion to the Jewish faith, although the precise meaning of the designation remains uncertain. After being called by Christ, Simon became one of the Twelve, witnessing our Lord’s ministry, passion, and resurrection. Ancient tradition associates him with missionary journeys in Egypt and Persia.
In religious art, St. Simon is usually shown holding a large saw. This is the traditional symbol of his martyrdom, indicating how he was put to death because of his refusal to abandon his faith in Christ. Although the New Testament does not record the circumstances of his death, the saw has become his distinctive attribute, reminding the faithful of his steadfastness even in the face of terrible suffering.
St. Jude, also called Thaddeus, must be distinguished from Judas Iscariot who betrayed our Lord. St. Jude is traditionally honoured as the patron saint of hopeless and desperate causes, and his intercession is sought by Christians enduring seemingly impossible difficulties.
He is frequently depicted holding a medallion bearing the face of Christ. This represents an ancient tradition concerning the Image of Edessa, according to which Jude carried an image of Our Lord to King Abgar, who sought healing. He may also be shown with a flame above his head, recalling the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles at Pentecost. He also carries a club or halberd, recalling the traditional account of his martyrdom.
According to ancient tradition, Simon and Jude preached together in Persia, where they confronted pagan worship and proclaimed Jesus Christ as Lord. Their preaching aroused opposition, and both Apostles suffered martyrdom. Tradition commonly holds that Simon was sawn in half, while Jude was killed with a club or halberd. The precise circumstances cannot be established with historical certainty, but their enduring veneration bears witness to the Church’s memory of their heroic faith.
Their feast calls us to imitate their apostolic courage. We may not be required to suffer martyrdom, but every Christian is called to bear witness to Christ through prayer, charity, fidelity, and holiness of life. St. Simon and St. Jude remind us that no labour undertaken for God is wasted, and that even in our darkest trials, Christian hope rests securely in the faithfulness of our Lord.
O ALMIGHTY God, who hast built thy Church upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the head corner-stone: Grant us so to be joined together in unity of spirit by their doctrine, that we may be made an holy temple acceptable unto thee; through the same Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord. Amen.