Feast of Saint Thomas – July 3

The name of the apostle derives from the word "twin" (in Aramaic) and there is no explanation of the name in the New Testament. He was one of the Twelve and is cited a few times in the Gospel of John. However, there is no doubt that the best known episode in his life is the appearance of Jesus to him after he had expressed doubt as to his resurrection.

"But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe." A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe." Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe" (John 20:24-29).

According to one tradition, the Apostle Thomas arrived as far as India in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ Risen. Until today, there are Christians in India that are known as Saint Thomas Christians.

View and listen to a video about Saint Thomas Christians in India