tombs of the Apostles: Saint Thomas Basilica by ric Gustafson
The Apostle known as Thomas appears on all the New Testament lists. Thomas in Greek means ' twin'. The most famous incident involving this Apostle gave him his nickname. The first time Jesus comes to his full group of followers after his resurrection, Thomas was not there. When they told Thomas that they had seen the Lord, he did not believe them. Thomas said he would not believe until he saw his nail scarred hands and put his fist into his side. A week later, Jesus comes again to the group and this time Thomas is with them. Jesus told him not to doubt but believe. He said blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.
In Chennai India is Saint Thomas's Basilica. Eight miles away is St Thomas's Mount. It is believed that the Apostle was martyred there. Chennai also called Madras was the fourth largest city in India. One theory is that Thomas landed on an island off the coast of Malabar. Then he stopped in Mylapore which is now Chennai. He oversaw the beginning of seven Christian communities and their growth. It is believed that he was martyred by angry Brahmans. Beyond the Gothic cathedral of the Basilica was the shrine of Thomas. Inside the Basilica were white walls and ceilings. There were fourteen stations of the cross. The shrine was of a bald spear carrying Thomas. The Apostle was kept in a glass case near the back with a cloth draped over it.
research help: ' Apostle' by Tom Bissell
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
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