St. Thomas, one of the Twelve Apostles, is venerated as the Apostle who touched the wounds of Christ and declared His divinity, earning the epithet “Doubting Thomas.” His life, ministry, and martyrdom have been the subject of profound devotion and reverence in the Catholic Church.
Early Life and Calling
St. Thomas was likely born in Galilee, a Jewish region in present-day Israel. Little is known about his life before meeting Christ, but he was called to be one of the Twelve Apostles early in Jesus’ ministry. His name in Hebrew, “Toma,” means “twin,” and in Greek, he is referred to as “Didymus,” which also means “twin.”
St. Thomas is portrayed in the Gospels as a man of both doubt and deep faith. His humanity and struggle with belief make him relatable to many Christians striving to understand and live out their faith.
Role in the Gospels
- In the Gospel of John:
- John 11:16: When Jesus announced His intention to return to Judea to visit the grave of Lazarus, Thomas boldly said, “Let us also go, that we may die with him,” showing his willingness to follow Christ even unto death.
- John 14:5: During the Last Supper, Thomas asked, “Lord, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” This question prompted Jesus’ profound response: “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life” (John 14:6).
- John 20:24-29: After the Resurrection, Thomas initially doubted the other Apostles’ testimony. When Jesus appeared to him, He invited Thomas to touch His wounds. Overcome, Thomas declared, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). This confession has become one of the most powerful affirmations of Christ’s divinity.
Missionary Work and Evangelization
After Pentecost, St. Thomas is traditionally believed to have traveled eastward to spread the Gospel. Early Christian traditions recount his missionary work in:
- Mesopotamia and Persia: He is said to have preached and established Christian communities in these regions.
- India: According to strong and ancient traditions, St. Thomas arrived in Kerala, on the southwestern coast of India, around 52 AD. He founded Christian communities, ordained priests, and baptized many, including members of the high caste. The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church traces its origins to his evangelization. He is credited with the establishment of the famous “Seven Churches” in Kerala.
Martyrdom
St. Thomas faced fierce opposition from pagan priests and rulers during his mission in India. He was martyred in 72 AD at a hill near Mylapore (present-day Chennai), now known as St. Thomas Mount. He was speared to death, a martyrdom that reflects his bold and unwavering proclamation of Christ.
His relics were later transferred to Edessa (modern-day Turkey) and subsequently to Ortona, Italy, where they are venerated to this day.
Legacy and Veneration
St. Thomas is the patron saint of:
- Architects and builders, as he is traditionally associated with constructing churches.
- India, due to his missionary efforts and martyrdom there.
- Those struggling with doubt, as his journey from doubt to faith inspires many.
His feast day is celebrated on July 3 in the Roman Calendar, marking the translation of his relics to Edessa.
Iconography
In art, St. Thomas is often depicted:
- Holding a spear, symbolizing his martyrdom.
- With a carpenter’s square, representing his work in building churches.
- Touching the wounds of Christ, commemorating his transformative moment of faith.
Reflection
St. Thomas teaches us that doubt, when accompanied by a sincere desire for truth, can lead to profound faith. His confession, “My Lord and my God,” remains a cornerstone of Catholic devotion to the Holy Eucharist and the divinity of Christ.
Through the intercession of St. Thomas, may we grow in faith and proclaim Christ boldly, even in the face of opposition. St. Thomas the Apostle, pray for us!