The Apostle Jude was the brother of the Apostle James. He was descended from the line of David and Solomon and was born in Nazareth to the righteous Joseph.
Jude, known as “the Brother of the Lord,” considered himself unworthy to be called the Lord’s brother, even though they had been raised under the same father. Nevertheless, as Saint John the Theologian testifies, he did not at first believe in Christ or in His coming as the Messiah.
After the Lord’s Ascension, the apostle began to preach the Gospel, traveling through Judea, Galilee, Samaria, Idumea, Arabia, Syria, and Mesopotamia. He came to the city of Edessa, where he completed the mission of one of the Seventy Apostles. He also preached in Persia and composed several epistles, through which he warned the faithful against sin and impiety, calling them to a virtuous and God-pleasing life.
After turning many people away from idolatry, he was arrested by the priests and, after enduring many tortures, was crucified.
His memory is celebrated on the 19th of June.
