"Nothing is far from God."
-St. Monica
The St. Augustine and St. Monica Parish Family 2008
HAVE A GREAT WEEK!
Saint of the Week
St. Thomas, the Apostle, July 3
St Thomas was a Jew and probably a Galilean of humble birth. Some historians claim that he was not a fisherman but a carpenter and a relative of Jesus. His real name was Jude or Judah. Why then do the Gospels refer to him as Thomas, which means twin ? Perhaps because we all are his twin, as we too have doubts and at times demand proof. Thomas was not present when the Lord first appeared to the other apostles and stated “ that unless I place my fingers into the nail prints in His hands and my hand into His side I shall not believe.” Eight days later when Jesus appeared and invited him to do so, Thomas fell at his feet and exclaimed “ my Lord and my God. “
It is believed that Thomas proclaimed the gospel in areas of the world particularly Osroene, Armenia, Iran, Southeast Asia, and India. Legend has it that Thomas was commissioned by Gundafor, a ruler of part of India to build a palace. When Gundafor went on a journey, Thomas used the money to help the poor rather than build the palace. Gundaford upon his returned demanded to know where his palace was. Thomas replied that he could not see it now, but would when he left this world. Gundafor became angry, had Thomas arrested and prepared to flay him alive. However, Gundafor’s brother died. The brother was allowed to return to earth. He reported to not only having seen the heavenly palace Thomas had built for Gundafor, but offered to buy it from the king. Gundafor then released Thomas and was baptized along with his brother and hundreds of others.
Many stories and legends abound concerning Thomas and his restoration of life to the dead and numerous other healings. Thomas was martyred on July 3, 72 A.D. the victim of stab wounds inflicted by envious Brahman priests. Thomas although speared in an isolated cave managed to drag himself to a nearby chapel, grasp a stone cross and pray “ I thank Thee for all Thy mercies. Into Your hands I commend my spirit,” He then entered into eternal life. Thomas should not be remembered for being a doubter, but for his faith and zeal as a true ambassador of Jesus Christ.
What doubts do we have in the risen Christ ?
To what extent are we willing to share the Gospel with others?
In His service & Love,
Deacon Joe
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