Saint Thomas, one of the revered Twelve Apostles, was known for his fervent yet impulsive dedication to Jesus Christ. When Jesus announced his intent to return to Judea to visit his ailing friend Lazarus, Thomas boldly encouraged his fellow Apostles to accompany Jesus, fully aware that the journey carried an imminent threat of danger, and even death, due to the escalating hostility from the authorities.
At the Last Supper, Jesus revealed to His Apostles his plan to prepare a place for them, assuring they knew the way. In his confusion, Thomas earnestly implored for clarity. This led to the sublime proclamation from Jesus that He himself was the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
However, Saint Thomas is perhaps most famously recognized for his role in confirming the Resurrection of Jesus. When told of Jesus’ reappearance on the first Easter Sunday, Thomas found himself enveloped by doubt, hence acquiring the moniker of “doubting Thomas.” Yet, eight days later, during Jesus’ second apparition, Thomas’ skepticism was gently admonished. He was provided with the evidence he sought, as he was allowed to see and touch the nail marks in Jesus’ hands and place his hand into His side. Overwhelmed with conviction, Saint Thomas openly professed his faith in the Divinity of Jesus, exclaiming, “My Lord and My God.”
In the New Testament, Saint Thomas is also mentioned as witnessing another miraculous event post-Resurrection— a significant haul of fish at Lake Tiberias.
Beyond these biblical accounts, tradition narrates that following the dispersion of the Apostles after Pentecost, Saint Thomas embarked on a mission to evangelize the Parthians, Medes, Persians, and ultimately arrived in India. He propagated the Christian faith along the Malabar coast, which to this day, boasts a sizable community identifying themselves as the “Christians of Saint Thomas.” His life culminated in martyrdom, as he was speared to death in a place named Calamine. Today, his feast day is celebrated on July 3rd, and he is recognized as the patron saint of architects.
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