HOMILY FOR THE FEAST OF SAINTS SIMON AND JUDE, APOSTLES (2)

HOMILY FOR THE FEAST OF SAINTS SIMON AND JUDE, APOSTLES.

THEME: The Apostles Zeal.

BY: Rev Fr Oselumhense Anetor (Uromi Diocese).

HOMILY FOR FRIDAY OCTOBER 28 2022.

Eph.2:19-22; Luke 6:12-16

Today, the Church celebrates two men that aren’t very popular among the Apostles – Simon (who is called the zealot), the eleventh in the list of the twelve Apostles, and Jude Thaddaeus (who for many years was thought to be Judas Iscariot), Patron Saint of lost and desperate causes. The lives of these apostles clearly show that very ordinary people can be saints. An encounter with Jesus transformed the zealot entirely and made him more accommodating of his brothers.

Friends, we are all called from different backgrounds to become part of Christ’s footsoldiers; messengers who do not shy away from bringing the Gospel message to people everywhere. This is how we truly become members of God’s temple. This is how we become living stones. Simon and Jude traveled together, giving witness to Christ’s suffering, death and resurrection. They converted many to the faith, and they died for this same faith on the same day in Beirut. Jude’s body was later returned to Rome where it was buried in a crypt under St. Peter’s Basilica. Let’s find some encouragement in their holy zeal.

Good morning dear. God bless your day. Saints Simon and Jude, pray for us.