Homily for the Feast of St. Thomas, Apostle

Today is the feast day of our parish's beloved patron saint, Thomas the Apostle. His life continues to inspire and guide us on our faith journey.

In John's Gospel, we first encounter Thomas during a moment of great significance. After the death of Lazarus, when fear gripped the Apostles about going with Jesus to Judea, it was Thomas who boldly declared, "Let us also go, that we may die with Him." This act of courage and faith is a testament to his character.

Next, we hear from Thomas when Jesus explained that He was going to His heavenly Father and that the Apostles would join Him one day. Thomas responded, "Lord, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?"

Thomas is best known for his doubt regarding Jesus's Resurrection. He said he would not believe until he saw and touched Jesus's wounds, which he did during a subsequent appearance by the Risen Lord. This moment has led to people who are skeptical being referred to as "Doubting Thomases."

Thomas had a much larger impact beyond these moments. He traveled to India to preach the Gospel, establishing seven churches before being martyred in 72 AD. It is also believed that he journeyed to China and possibly to Indonesia.

As our patron saint, let us pray for St. Thomas's intercession, asking that our faith be strong and that we may follow wherever the Lord calls us.