St Thomas the Apostle is one of the most fascinating figures in early Christianity. He is known as ‘Doubting Thomas for his initial disbelief in the resurrection, he is also remembered for his courageous missionary work, which took him thousands of miles from his home in Galilee.

According to Christian tradition, after the Ascension of Jesus, the apostles divided up the known world to spread the Gospel. Thomas’ assignment was to travel to the east, all the way to India. This was an arduous and dangerous journey in the 1st century AD. The route would have taken him across the Arabian Peninsula, through Persian land (present day Iran) and eventually to the subcontinent of India.

Why was Thomas chosen for this difficult mission? Scholars believe it was because of his determination and steadfast faith. Even after doubting the resurrection, Thomas became one of Jesus’ most loyal and devoted followers. When Jesus appeared to the disciples after the crucifixion, Thomas declared “My Lord and my God”! This proclamation of faith likely marked him as the ideal apostle to bring Christianity to the distant lands of the East.

Thomas’ travels took him first to the ancient port city of Muziris on the southwest coast of India, in modern-day Kerala. There, he is said to have established the first Christian churches in India, laying the foundations for what would become one of the oldest Christian communities in the world.

From Muziris, Thomas travelled inland preaching the Gospel and performing miracles. According to tradition, he converted many to Christianity, even high-caste Brahmins. He is also credited with establishing churches in several cities, inlcuding what is now Chennai (then known as Mylapore).

Tragically, Thomas’ missionary work in India was cut short when he was martyred around AD 72, and killed by hostile non-Christian priests, probably Hindu. Legend has it that he was speared to death on a nearby hilltop, which is now known as “St Thomas’ Mount”.

Despite his untimely death, Thomas left an indellible mark on the Christian church in India. The communty established, known as the “St Thomas Christians”, continues to thrive to this very day, maintaining ancient liturgical and cultural traditions. Thomas’ legacy as a fearless evangelizer and martyr has inspired Christians around the world for nearly 2,000 years.

God bless you,

Nick x.