Saint Jude: The Patron Saint of Lost Causes (Volume 7)

 

Over the Back Fence

 

Saint Jude:  The Patron Saint of Lost Causes

 

by

 

Vicki L. Bishop

 

 

 

I can still remember the first time I drove past St. Jude Chapel near Montauk State Park.  I was working for the park service, and I was in the car with a co-worker.  She looked at me and said—someday I am going to get married there.  As she slowed the car, I caught a glimpse of the most charming log church.

 

 The rustic log structure was simple, yet elegant with hand hewn logs and a quality of workmanship no longer found.  When driving past St. Jude, the uniqueness of the structure and its balance with nature stand out.   Many motorists stop and take photos.  Some return because they just must see the inside.  

 

I was one of the second group--who just had to see the inside, although my return would be more than 30 years later. 

 

It did not disappoint!  The rustic design stands testament to the area's logging industry.  Each log was specially chosen for its place in the structure that would honor God for many years to come.  Nature, architecture, history and spirituality combine into one and make the little log chapel God's house.  The pavers, the rustic fixtures, the carved benches.  The view through the window to the rear of the chapel will sport an abundance of wildlife--deer, turkeys, birds, squirrels and many of God's creatures among somewhat towering pine trees. 

 

Prior to the log chapel being built near Montauk, area Catholics met in houses, then later in a Quonset structure in the nearby community of Joy.  Walter Weber had relocated to the area and had prayed that his business would be successful. He promised God that he would build a chapel if he were successful enough to do so.  In 1968, on land owned by the Walter Weber family, the log chapel was constructed.   

 

Was that really the reason he built the chapel?  An interview with one elderly resident revealed that they believed Mr. Weber built the chapel and didn’t ask God for a successful business, but to be delivered from alcoholism.  It turns out that God granted both desires, and he was successful in business, and once the chapel was completed, he was no longer had a drinking problem.  

 

It has been said that the bell that hangs in the belfry came from the (old) Sacred Heart Church in Troy.  Weber used to hunt with the leader of the Troy parish and when the church was destroyed by fire, Weber traded a couple of hunting dogs for the bell. 

 

 

The chapel was dedicated to Saint Jude, Patron Saint of Lost Causes.  It serves as a mission church to nearby Montauk State Park and has services 'in season' (start date may vary but is usually in May) on Saturdays at 3:30 pm.  

 

The chapel is located about 18 miles south of Salem, MO before entering Montauk State Park just off Highway 119 at 345 County Road 6670, Salem, MO 65560.   For information regarding St. Jude, mass time or viewing, please contact Sacred Heart Parish in Salem at 573-729-4291. 

 

The trip to St. Jude is an enjoyable and easy drive and is a wonderful day trip if you are looking to stay close to home.   I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did!  Until I see you next time…Over the Back Fence.