Redemptus of the Cross, born Tomás Rodrigues da Cunha, was a Portuguese Carmelite lay brother and diplomat who lived from 1598 to 1638. Originally a soldier serving in India, he joined the Discalced Carmelites in Goa in 1615. He later participated in a diplomatic mission to Aceh, accompanying Denis of the Nativity. During this mission, he was apprehended by Dutch authorities, where he faced torture and eventual execution for refusing to renounce his Catholic faith.
Life and death
Born in Paredes, Portugal, the man who would become Redemptus served as a soldier before entering the religious life. While acting as an ambassador in Banda Aceh, he was arrested by the Dutch. He endured significant torture but remained steadfast in his religious convictions. He was ultimately executed by arrows and throat cutting on 27 November 1638.
Veneration
The Catholic Church recognizes him as a blessed martyr. He was beatified by Pope Leo XIII in 1900. His feast day is observed annually on 29 November, commemorating the circumstances of his death in Aceh.