Thomas

Thomas, also called Didymus (the Twin), is chosen by Jesus as one of the Twelve Apostles. His twin relationship is mentioned but his twin is never identified. He leaves his former life to follow Jesus.

When Jesus decides to return to Judea despite the danger to raise Lazarus, Thomas says to the other disciples: 'Let us also go, that we may die with him.' This reveals courage and loyalty, not just doubt.

At the Last Supper, when Jesus speaks of going to prepare a place, Thomas honestly admits his confusion: 'Lord, we don't know where you are going, so how can we know the way?' Jesus responds with His famous declaration: 'I am the way, the truth, and the life.'

When Jesus appears to the disciples on Easter evening, Thomas is not present. The others tell him they have seen the Lord, but Thomas refuses to believe unless he touches Jesus' wounds: 'Unless I see... I will not believe.'

A week later, Jesus appears again with Thomas present. He invites Thomas to touch His wounds. Thomas responds with the highest confession in the Gospels: 'My Lord and my God!' Jesus blesses those who believe without seeing.

Thomas is among the seven disciples who go fishing after the resurrection and witness Jesus' appearance on the shore. He shares the miraculous catch of 153 fish and breakfast with the risen Lord.

Thomas remains with the apostles through the ascension and Pentecost. As the church grows and disperses, tradition indicates Thomas becomes a missionary to regions beyond the Roman Empire.

According to strong church tradition, Thomas travels as a missionary to India, establishing churches along the Malabar Coast. The Mar Thoma Church traces its origins to his ministry. He is said to have reached even China.

Tradition holds that Thomas was martyred near Chennai, India, killed by spears while praying. His tomb at St. Thomas Mount remains a pilgrimage site. The church he founded has persisted for nearly two thousand years.