From the web, some history on St. Jude: Why is St. Jude holding a medallion?
The medallion is an impression of Jesus, known as “The Image of Edessa.” King Abgar of Edessa (now part of Turkey) was suffering from a serious illness. He had heard of Jesus healing others and called for Jesus to heal him. Jesus pressed His face onto a piece of cloth and gave it to St. Jude to present to King Abgar. Upon receiving the cloth King Abgar was healed. This scene is depicted in one of the stained glass windows at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, where the National Shrine of St. Jude is located.
Why is there a flame above St. Jude's head?
Known as “The Tongue of Flame,” this represents the Holy Spirit descending upon St. Jude and the other Apostles at Pentecost. “They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them” (Acts 2:3-4).
Why does St. Jude wear green?
St. Jude is depicted wearing green because green symbolizes hope and renewal. Just as in spring when foliage and flowers spring up with renewed life, we turn to St. Jude, our Patron of Hope, in difficult or seemingly hopeless times.
What is St. Jude's relationship with Jesus?
There are differing views on exactly how St. Jude is related to Jesus. Some writings identify St. Jude as “Judas the brother of James,” while others refer to him as “Judas the son of James.” Galatians 1:19 tells us that James is a brother of Jesus. However, in the Gospel of Matthew 13:55, St. Jude is said to be a brother of Jesus. “Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t His mother’s name Mary, and aren’t His brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?” Regardless, we know that St. Jude was one of Jesus’ Apostles and that they shared a close relationship.