St. Dismas – The Good Thief

“Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”

Who Was St. Dismas?

St. Dismas, also known as the Good Thief, is a significant figure in the Bible and a beloved saint in the Catholic Church. His story is told in the Gospel of Luke, where he is one of two criminals crucified alongside Jesus.

St. Dismas was a man who was crucified alongside Jesus Christ. As they were being crucified, one of the thieves who was being crucified with Jesus taunted him, while the other, Dismas, rebuked the other thief and professed faith in Jesus.

Jesus is said to have responded to Dismas by saying, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” This statement is often interpreted as meaning that Dismas was forgiven and granted eternal life.

There are several traditions surrounding St. Dismas and his life. One such tradition is that he encountered the Holy Family on the way to Bethlehem and was moved by grace to prevent a robbery from taking place. As a reward for this action, Dismas was saved on Calvary and promised eternal life with Jesus. Another tradition states that Dismas was a violent criminal who repented and begged for Jesus’ mercy on the cross.

St. Dismas – The Patron Saint of Criminals

St. Dismas is the patron saint of penitent criminals and is often invoked for the grace of repentance. The feast day of St. Dismas is celebrated on March 25th, the same day as the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This pairing is due to the tradition that Jesus was conceived and crucified on the same day in the calendar.

In art and literature, St. Dismas is often depicted alongside the other criminal, Gestas, who mocked Jesus on the cross. Dismas, on the other hand, is shown with a repentant expression and is often referred to as the “Good Thief.” He is also depicted with a cross, as he is associated with the concept of redemption through suffering.

St. Dismas has a strong following in the Catholic Church and is remembered for his humility and willingness to repent. His story serves as a reminder that it is never too late to turn towards God and ask for forgiveness. St. Dismas is a powerful intercessor for those seeking the grace of conversion and a reminder of the boundless mercy of God.

St. Dismas in the Modern World

In addition to being a popular saint, St. Dismas has also been the subject of numerous artistic and literary works. One famous example is the play “The Good Thief” by Flannery O’Connor, which portrays Dismas as a complex and multi-faceted character. The play delves into Dismas’ past and motivations, ultimately portraying him as a symbol of hope and redemption.

Another notable work featuring St. Dismas is the novel “The Way of the Cross” by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. This book tells the story of Jesus’ Passion from the perspective of St. Dismas, offering a unique and powerful perspective on the events of Good Friday.

St. Dismas is also featured in several films and television shows, including the recent miniseries “The Passion” and the film “The Young Messiah.” These depictions often portray Dismas as a complex and sympathetic character, highlighting his transformation through encounter with Jesus.

In conclusion, St. Dismas is a beloved saint in the Catholic Church, remembered for his humility and repentant words to Jesus on the cross. He serves as a powerful intercessor for those seeking conversion and a reminder of the boundless mercy of God. St. Dismas has been the subject of numerous artistic and literary works, and his story continues to inspire and move people to this day.

Prayer to St. Dismas

Dear St. Dismas,

You were a man who knew the depths of despair and the pain of being separated from God. Yet, in your darkest hour, you turned to Jesus and professed your faith in him.

Through your example, you remind us that no matter how far we may feel from God, his love and mercy are always within reach. Help us to turn to him in times of hardship, and to trust in his loving plan for our lives.

Pray for us, that we may follow your example and turn to Jesus in all things. May we find comfort and strength in the knowledge that, through his death and resurrection, we too have the opportunity to be reconciled with God.

We pray this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Popular St. Dismas Medal and St. Dismas Rosary