St Thomas, one of the twelve apostles, is often called "the unbeliever", because he doubted Christ's Resurrection until he could touch his glorious wounds. But this doubt became an immense act of faith, as he cried out: "My Lord and my God! A tireless missionary, he is said to have proclaimed the Gospel as far away as India, where he gave his life for Christ. Saint Thomas is invoked to strengthen faith, overcome doubts and walk confidently in the light of the Risen Lord.

Powerful prayer to Saint Thomas

O Saint Thomas, beloved apostle of the Lord, you who walked with Jesus, shared his joys and his labours, today look at our lives and come to our aid. You experienced doubt and fear, but you also strongly confessed the divinity of Christ. Obtain for us a faith that is alive and ardent, capable of going through uncertainties and trials.

Saint Thomas, you who dared to say: "Let us go with him, and die with him", give us the courage to follow Jesus to the end, even in times of suffering and cross. Grow in us a fidelity that does not shrink from any trial, a trust that does not allow itself to be shaken by the storms of life.

You who doubted the Resurrection, but who saw and touched the glorious wounds of the Saviour, obtain for us the grace to recognise the presence of Christ in the sacraments, in our brothers and sisters and in everyday events. Teach us to see beyond appearances, to believe even without seeing, and to proclaim with all our heart: "My Lord and my God!"

Courageous missionary, you who carried the light of the Gospel to the ends of the earth, kindle apostolic zeal in us. Make us bold to bear witness to Jesus in our family, our work and our encounters. May our words and deeds manifest Christ's love and draw souls to Him.

Saint Thomas, martyr of Christ, you who gave your life spreading the Good News, support those who suffer today because of their faith. Protect persecuted Christians, strengthen missionaries and keep alive in us the certainty that Christ's victory has already been won.

O glorious apostle, present our prayers before the throne of God. Come to the rescue of our doubts, enlighten our minds, strengthen our wills. Make us faithful and joyful witnesses of the Resurrection, until the day we behold the Lord face to face in glory.

Saint Thomas, pray for us and keep us in the peace of faith.

 Amen.