Feast of Saints Simon and Jude

The Feast of Saints Simon and Jude is observed on October 28 in many Christian traditions. It honors two of Jesus’ apostles, remembered together in the church calendar. For worshippers, the day is an occasion for prayer, reflection, and learning about the lives and legacy of these early followers.

How the Feast Began

The exact history of when this shared observance began is not well documented. According to Vatican News, the Church remembers Saint Simon, known as the “Zealot,” and Saint Jude Thaddeus on October 28. The source describes both as apostles of Christ and, according to tradition, martyrs of the Gospel in Mesopotamia.

Simon is often called Simon the Zealot to distinguish him from Simon Peter. Jude is also known as Judas Thaddeus; the name Jude helps distinguish him from Judas Iscariot. Christian tradition places both among the Twelve Apostles, though details about their lives and later journeys are limited and vary among accounts.

Who Were Saints Simon and Jude?

The New Testament names Simon and Jude among the apostles, but offers relatively little biographical detail about either one. The title “the Zealot” is associated with Simon, while Jude is traditionally connected with the New Testament Letter of Jude. Because the records are brief, many stories about their travels and deaths come from later Christian tradition rather than accounts that can be firmly confirmed.

Jude is widely venerated in Catholic tradition as a patron saint of people facing desperate or difficult situations. This association has made devotion to him especially meaningful for those seeking comfort and hope. Simon, meanwhile, is remembered as one of the apostles who shared in Jesus’ ministry and carried the Christian message forward.

Their feast is a reminder that the apostles were a varied group, brought together by a shared faith and purpose. Remembering them can invite reflection on commitment, perseverance, and the ways people support one another through uncertainty.

Ways to Celebrate the Feast

People mark the day in different ways, depending on their faith community and personal traditions. Here are some thoughtful ways to take part:

• Attend a service: Join a church service or prayer gathering that observes the feast, if one is offered in your community.
• Learn about the apostles: Read the New Testament passages that name Simon and Jude, or explore how your tradition remembers them.
• Make time for prayer: Use the day to pray for someone facing a difficult period, or to reflect on where you might offer practical support.
• Reach out to someone: Send a kind message, share a meal, or lend a hand to a friend or neighbor who could use encouragement.
• Talk with family: Share what you have learned about the feast and discuss how courage, faith, and hope show up in everyday life.

Reviewed by the Holiday List editorial team on October 21, 2026 · Last updated October 21, 2026.

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