In the mystical visions of Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich (a 19th-century German mystic and stigmatist), St. Thomas notably arrives late on two significant occasions🇻🇦
◆︎ The First Time: The Resurrection
After the Resurrection, Jesus appeared to the apostles, but Thomas was absent. Hearing the news, he declared:
“Unless I see the mark of the nails... and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” (John 20:25)
A week later, the Risen Christ returned and invited him to touch the wounds. Thomas exclaimed: “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28)
Jesus replied: “Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.” (John 20:29)
◆︎ The Second Time: The Death of the Blessed Virgin Mary
According to Emmerich’s visions, while other apostles were miraculously summoned to Mary’s bedside in Ephesus, Thomas was farthest away in India. He hesitated upon receiving the angelic call and arrived only the day after her death and burial. Deeply grieved, he wept abundantly. In mercy, the tomb was opened, granting him consolation regarding her Assumption.
These moments reveal Thomas’s humanity, yet God’s patience transformed his doubts into bold faith. He courageously evangelized India and was martyred around 72 AD. His relics are venerated at Santhome Cathedral Basilica in Mylapore, Chennai, and in Ortona, Italy.
St. Thomas reminds us: delays and doubts do not disqualify us. With Christ’s mercy, they become paths to stronger witness.
St. Thomas the Apostle, Pray for us!