Why Apostles St. Thomas came to india

St. Thomas, also known as Apostle Thomas or Doubting Thomas, was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He is famously known for his initial skepticism of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the incident of him needing to touch Jesus' wounds to believe. However, his story goes beyond this and involves a significant journey to India and his eventual death.

Why St. Thomas Came to India

According to Christian tradition, St. Thomas came to India in 52 AD. He arrived at the port of Muziris, now known as Kodungallur, in the state of Kerala. The reason for his journey to India is not entirely clear, but some sources suggest that he was sent by Jesus Christ himself. There are also theories that he came to spread the gospel and establish churches in India, as well as to seek refuge from persecution in the Roman Empire.

St. Thomas' Journey to India

St. Thomas' journey to India was no easy feat. He is said to have traveled from the Middle East to India on foot, passing through Syria and Mesopotamia. He then traveled by boat across the Arabian Sea, eventually arriving at the port of Muziris. From there, he is believed to have traveled to various parts of India, including Madras (now Chennai), Mylapore (now a neighborhood in Chennai), and Malabar (now a region in Kerala).

St. Thomas' Ministry in India

St. Thomas' ministry in India was highly successful, with many people converting to Christianity. He is said to have performed various miracles and healings, which attracted many people to his teachings. St. Thomas is also credited with establishing several churches in India, including the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in Kerala, which is believed to have been built on the site where he was martyred.

How St. Thomas Died

St. Thomas' death is a controversial and debated topic. According to Christian tradition, St. Thomas was martyred in 72 AD in Mylapore, Chennai. He was reportedly killed by being pierced with a spear or a lance by a group of soldiers who were angry with his preaching. However, there are other theories that suggest he died of natural causes or that he was killed while on a mission to establish a church in China.

Who Killed Thomas

The identity of the person or people who killed St. Thomas is not entirely clear. Some sources suggest that he was killed by local soldiers who were angry with his preaching and the number of people converting to Christianity. Others suggest that he was killed by a jealous Hindu priest who was unhappy with the growing popularity of Christianity. However, there is no concrete evidence to support any of these theories.

Where is his Body Buried

St. Thomas' body was initially buried in Mylapore, Chennai, where he was martyred. However, his remains were later moved to various locations across India and the Middle East. According to Christian tradition, his remains were first moved to Edessa, now in modern-day Turkey, and then to Ortona, Italy, where they remain today. The St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in Kerala also claims to have some of St. Thomas' relics, including a piece of his bone and a piece of the lance that killed him.

In Conclusion

St. Thomas' journey to India and his subsequent ministry and death are significant parts of Christian history. Despite the controversies surrounding his death and the location of his remains, St. Thomas' legacy continues to inspire and influence many people today. The St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in Kerala, which is believed to have been built on the site of his martyrdom, is a popular pilgrimage destination for Christians around the world. St. Thomas' story serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the courage to spread one's beliefs even in the face of persecution.

St. Thomas' legacy is also seen in the thriving Christian community in India today. Christianity is one of the major religions in India, with around 28 million followers, and it is believed that St. Thomas played a significant role in the establishment of Christianity in the country.

In addition to his influence in India, St. Thomas is also recognized as the patron saint of architects, builders, and construction workers, due to his involvement in the construction of churches during his ministry in India. His teachings on the importance of faith, love, and service to others continue to inspire Christians around the world today.

In conclusion, St. Thomas' journey to India, his ministry, and his death remain a significant part of Christian history. While the details surrounding his death and the location of his remains may remain shrouded in mystery, his legacy of faith, love, and service continues to inspire and influence many people today.

St. Thomas church in chennai

The St. Thomas church in Chennai, also known as the San Thome Basilica, is a Roman Catholic church located in the neighborhood of Mylapore. The church is built on the site where St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, is believed to have been martyred in 72 AD.

The church has a rich history, with the original structure being built in the 16th century by Portuguese explorers who arrived in India. Over the years, the church underwent several renovations and expansions, with the current structure being built in the early 20th century.

The church is an impressive example of neo-gothic architecture, with towering spires, intricate carvings, and stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of St. Thomas. The interior of the church is equally stunning, with high vaulted ceilings, ornate altars, and beautiful marble flooring.

One of the main attractions of the church is the tomb of St. Thomas, which is located beneath the main altar. The tomb is said to contain a small piece of the lance that killed St. Thomas, as well as a piece of his bone. The tomb is covered by a beautiful canopy, and visitors can pay their respects and offer prayers at the site.

Another important feature of the St. Thomas church is the museum, which is located on the church premises. The museum houses a collection of artifacts related to the life and ministry of St. Thomas, as well as several other important religious relics.

The St. Thomas church is a popular pilgrimage destination for Christians around the world, with thousands of visitors flocking to the site every year. The church also plays an important role in the cultural and religious life of the local community, with regular services and festivals being held throughout the year.

In conclusion, the St. Thomas church in Chennai is an important site of Christian pilgrimage and a significant part of Indian and Christian history. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the religious and cultural heritage of India.

Santhome Church, also known as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, is a Roman Catholic church located in the neighborhood of Santhome in Chennai, India. The church is built on the site where St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, is believed to have been buried after his martyrdom in 72 AD.

The original structure of the Santhome Church was built by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century, and over the years, it underwent several renovations and expansions. The current structure of the church, which was built in the early 20th century, is an impressive example of neo-gothic architecture, with soaring spires, intricate carvings, and stained glass windows.

One of the main attractions of the Santhome Church is the tomb of St. Thomas, which is located beneath the main altar. The tomb is said to contain the remains of St. Thomas, including a small piece of his bone. The tomb is covered by a beautiful canopy, and visitors can pay their respects and offer prayers at the site.

The Santhome Church is also an important cultural and religious site in Chennai. The church is a popular destination for Christian pilgrims, and regular services are held throughout the year. The church also plays an important role in the local community, with various social and cultural events being held on its premises.

One of the most important events at the Santhome Church is the Feast of St. Thomas, which is celebrated every year on July 3rd. The feast is a vibrant and colorful celebration, with processions, prayers, and cultural programs being held throughout the day.

The Santhome Church is not only an important religious site but also an architectural masterpiece. The church's impressive structure and intricate design make it a popular destination for tourists and history buffs. Visitors can explore the church's interior, which is adorned with beautiful murals, sculptures, and stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of St. Thomas.

In conclusion, the Santhome Church is a significant part of Indian and Christian history and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the religious and cultural heritage of Chennai. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural significance make it a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.