Saint of the Day: St. Dismas

(First Century)

His life

+ For centuries, Christians have held special devotion for the thief—to whom tradition has given the name “Dismas”—who said to Jesus on the Cross, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” To which Jesus replied: “Amen, I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise” (cf. Luke 23:42-43).

+ The Roman Martyrology assigns his death to this day because, as both Tertullian and Augustine attest, March 25 was traditionally regarded as the day of Christ’s death.

+ Saint Dismas is honored as the patron saint of prisoners and thieves.

For prayer and reflection

“Hail to you, our King; you alone are compassionate with our faults.”—Verse before the Gospel for Monday of Holy Week

Prayer

Grant, we pray, almighty God,
that, though in our weakness we fail,
we may be revived through the Passion of your Only Begotten Son.
Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever. Amen.

(from The Roman Missal: Collect for Monday of Holy Week)

Saint profiles prepared by Brother Silas Henderson, S.D.S.