Saint Thomas

St Thomas History

Thi Day honours the life and contributions of Saint Thomas the Apostle, a disciple of Jesus Christ who is known for his persistent quest for understanding, truth and faith. This day represents an opportunity for spiritual reflection on the journey of faith, with special focus on the teachings of Saint Thomas. It serves as a reminder for believers to seek answers in their faith, while promoting intellectual growth and understanding within their religious community.

Saint Thomas the Apostle is believed to have journeyed to India, where he laid the foundation of Christianity in the region. This historical connection to India forms a basis for Australians of Indian descent, along with Christians of South Indian heritage, to recognize this day as an important cultural and religious observance. The celebration of Saint Thomas Day in Australia emphasizes the importance of cultural intersection and the ongoing relevance of historical figures in modern times.

In Australia, Saint Thomas Day is typically celebrated within religious and cultural communities through prayer and reflection. Christian churches may organise special services or prayer meetings to focus on the teachings of Saint Thomas, emphasising his dedication to understanding faith and truth. These events serve as opportunities for attendees to engage with one another and reflect on their own spiritual journeys. Saint Thomas Day is observed on July 3rd annually.

Saint Thomas facts

• Thomas didn't believe the apostles when they saw Jesus the first time after the resurrection. He saw Jesus himself during his second appearance, and touched the wounds on his hands and side (John 20:24-29).
• Church tradition says that Thomas traveled to eastern lands, including Persia, to evangelize to the people there about Jesus. He is thought to have settled in India.
• One of the most popular customs associated with Saint Thomas Day is the lighting of the Advent wreath, which symbolizes the coming of the Christ Child.
• Another common tradition to celebrate Saint Thomas Day is the reading of the Book of Isaiah, which contains prophecies about the birth of Jesus.

In the News and Trending in Australia for Saint Thomas

Top things to do in Australia for Saint Thomas Day

• Read writings by St. Thomas. Several early church documents bearing Thomas' name are popular, including the Gospel of Thomas, which is a collection of Jesus' sayings. Other texts include the Acts of Thomas and the Infancy Gospel of Thomas. None of these texts were included in the Bible.
• Thousands of Indians claim to be descendants of the Christians that Thomas helped to convert. Join them on a pilgrimage in Paylador to the traditional spot of Thomas' tomb, Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral of the Syro-Malabar Archdiocese of Trichur (Kerala, India).
• Visit religious sites, such as St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Blackburn or St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Hadfield.
• Use the occasion of Saint Thomas Day to learn and explore the history of Christianity in Australia.