St Thomas, the missionary apostle: an annual celebration of his life

The feast of St Thomas is celebrated every year on 28 January. St. Thomas was an apostle of Jesus, known for having doubted the resurrection of Jesus before acknowledging his existence. Celebrating this feast day is a way of remembering the story of St Thomas and honouring his memory.

History of St Thomas

St Thomas is known for his initial disbelief in the resurrection of Jesus, but for finally recognising its reality after seeing the risen Jesus. He was also an active missionary, travelling as far as India to spread the good news of Jesus.

Celebrations of the Feast of St Thomas

The feast of St Thomas is celebrated in Catholic and Orthodox churches, as well as by Syriac communities.

Religious Rituals

Religious celebrations include the reading of holy texts, prayer and liturgical celebrations. Special masses may be organised to honour St Thomas.

Folk festivals

In some regions, the feast is celebrated with folk festivals, such as processions, concerts and festivals. People gather to celebrate the life of St Thomas and to honour his memory.

Modern significance of the feast of St Thomas

The Feast of St Thomas remains relevant today as a reminder of the importance of believing in the reality of Jesus' resurrection and continuing to spread this good news. People can remember the legacy of St Thomas by following his example as a missionary, being committed to their faith and helping others to understand the significance of the resurrection.

In short, the feast of St Thomas is an opportunity for people to remember the story of this apostle and to honour his memory by celebrating his life and his impact on the Christian community.

Prayer to Saint Thomas

Lord, thank you for the life and example of St Thomas.

He was a faithful disciple and bearer of the good news of Your love.

We pray to you today that you will bless our faith and our determination to believe in you.

Help us to trust in Your unconditional love, even when we doubt or are unsure.

Like St Thomas, give us the strength to follow Your path, no matter how far we must travel to do Your will.

May Your Spirit guide us and strengthen us, so that we may proclaim Your love to those around us.

We pray in Your loving name.

Amen.