St. Jude’s Shrine, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India
Introduction
St. Jude’s Church is situated in the Civil Lines area of Jhansi, renowned as a prominent tourist spot for Catholic Christians. The devotion to St. Jude Thaddaeus was relatively unfamiliar in India until the late Bishop F. X. Fenech introduced it in Jhansi, which was then a Prefecture Apostolic. Despite the challenges posed by World War II, Bishop Fenech, a man of unwavering faith, pledged to build a Shrine in Jhansi in honor of St. Jude, seeking the saint’s assistance. Utilizing available media platforms, he publicized his intention in publications such as the Catholic Herald of England and the Indian Catholic Newspaper – The Examiner.
Bishop F. X. Fenech, along with fellow believers, initiated prayers in this church. Devotees from distant places visit this church to pay homage to this revered saint.
A week-long festival, known as St. Jude’s festival, is celebrated annually in his honor. This religious site, showcasing a blend of Christian and Hindu architectural styles, attracts not only Christians but also individuals from various other faiths.
History of St. Jude’s Shrine
St. Jude Thaddaeus, also known as Jude the Apostle, lived during the 1st century AD. As one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, he devoted his life to spreading the teachings of God and Jesus. Traveling extensively, he preached about the Lord in various countries, aiming to share the message with people worldwide. St. Jude’s Shrine holds the distinction of being the first church in Asia dedicated to St. Jude Thaddaeus.
Architecture of St. Jude’s Shrine
The church occupies a spacious area and serves as a revered destination for visitors. Initially constructed as a temporary chapel, it underwent expansion due to the increasing number of devotees making regular visits to the shrine. A lengthy passage and a staircase lead to the church, and its architecture and atmosphere exude tranquility. The shrine features tall walls with numerous windows, ensuring ample natural light and ventilation throughout the hall, accommodating approximately 300-350 people. A prominent statue of Jesus is positioned against one wall, offering a clear view from the entrance. Within the premises, there is a small garden, enhancing the scenic charm of the shrine, which is frequented by locals and tourists alike. The church provides ample parking space and is well-maintained. It is a popular landmark in Jhansi, offering dormitory facilities for travelers.
Annual Feast Day
Feast Date : October 28
The annual feast day of the St. Jude’s Shrine, Jhansi is celebrated on October 28 every year.
Mass Timing
Weekly Masses
Monday to Friday : 7:00 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 5:00 p.m.,
Weekend Masses
Saturday : 6:00 a.m. – 6:30 a.m
Sundays : 6:30 a.m., 8:00 a.m., 6:00 p.m.,
Mass Timing
- Monday to Sunday : 7:00 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 5:00 p.m.,
Contact Info
St. Jude’s Shrine,
s House,
CHR9+XHP Bishop,
64, s House, 64,
Allahabad Bank Chauraha,
Civil Lines, Cantt,
Jhansi,
284001,
Uttar Pradesh,
India.
Phone No.
Phone: 0510-2471205
Accomodation
Connectivities
Airway
The nearest airport to the St. Jude’s Shrine, Jhansi is Gwalior Domestic Airport . which is 103 km away from the Shrine.
Railway
The nearest Railaway to the St. Jude’s Shrine, Jhansi is Jhansi Railway Station. which is 1.9 km away from the Shrine.
