Thomas the Apostle, also known as Didymus, was a first-century follower of Jesus and one of the Twelve Apostles. He is frequently identified by the epithet "doubting Thomas" due to his initial refusal to believe in the resurrection until he personally witnessed and touched the wounds of the risen Christ. Originally from Galilee, he is remembered as a significant missionary who traveled extensively to spread Christianity, eventually reaching India, where he is traditionally believed to have died in Mylapore.
Life and mission
Following his time with Jesus, Thomas is said to have established the Church of the East in Upper Mesopotamia. He later traveled further east, reportedly arriving in India near Muziris to evangelize various groups. His missionary work is credited with laying the foundations for early Christian communities in both southern Asia and Sri Lanka.
Veneration and legacy
He is honored as the patron saint of India by the Saint Thomas Christians. His feast is observed on various dates, most commonly July 3. His relics were moved to Ortona, Italy, in the 13th century. In different traditions, he is sometimes associated with being the sole witness to the Assumption of Mary.