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On All Saints, the Church celebrates all those who are in Heaven – both those recognised by the Church as saints and those known only to the Lord.

Thaddeus, better known as Jude and most famous as the patron saint of lost causes, may have been Simon’s companion in death. They are venerated on the same day. There is a tradition to connect them - that they travelled together to Persia where they were martyred, after earlier and separate missionary journeys: Simon’s to Egypt and Jude’s to Syria.

One of the twelve apostles, St Jude is possibly the least well known, though famous for his power of intercession on behalf of those in difficult circumstances. Here Glynn MacNiven-Johnston pieces together his fascinating story.

Catholics believe that after someone has died, we can help their soul get to heaven by praying for them. Here are some prayers for the dead you can use.

From the beginning of his pontificate, Pope St John Paul II spoke to the heart of the faithful. ‘Do not be afraid’ he cried to the crowds gathered in Saint Peters’ Square, urging them (and the communists) to ‘Open wide the doors to Christ.’ He had a special message for young people, telling them: ‘You are the future of the world and the hope of the Church. You are my hope!’ (22 October 1978).

Pray to the patron of impossible causes with this novena prayer.