On Sunday, Mexico City's famous Xochimilco canals hosted a unique event honoring St. Jude Thaddeus, the patron saint of impossible causes. Catholics filled the distinctive "trajineras"—boats painted in bold colors—to venerate a relic. The bone fragment of St. Jude's arm, enshrined in a glass case, is making its inaugural trip to Mexico. The relic's visit, starting in late July and continuing through August 28, incorporates stops at various Mexican parishes.
Among the devotees was Iris Guadalupe Hernández, who shared her family's long-standing tradition of devotion to St. Jude. Her mother's prayers to the saint were answered after multiple miscarriages, leading to Iris's birth. Each October 28, thousands gather at San Hipólito church in Mexico City to honor St. Jude, one of Mexico's most venerated saints, following only Our Lady of Guadalupe in reverence.
The dedication to St. Jude extends to Xochimilco, where locals also cherish the Niñopa, a life-sized figure of the infant Jesus. Local priest Rev. Jesús Alejandro Contreras noted that St. Jude is significant among the community, symbolizing hope for difficult causes. The colorful procession featured traditional music and comparsas dance troupes donning elaborate costumes. Francisco García, another devotee, conveyed his emotional connection, stating, "You called for me, so here I am." The relic will remain in Xochimilco until nightfall before continuing its journey through central Mexico, ultimately departing in late August. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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