High Days and Holidays

St. Thomas used to be remembered on December 21st when the long dark night seemed appropriate to his doubts. This was hard for the congregations of churches dedicated to St. Thomas because their patronal festival was just before Christmas and because it emphasised doubt instead of faith. The new Church calendar remembers St. Thomas on July 3rd each year, recalling the light of Christ returning to his life.

St. James, the brother of John the beloved disciple, has a day to himself on July 25th. They were probably a boisterous pair of young men, because they were known as ‘the sons of thunder’, but they were faithful and brave.

Thomas, James and the other disciples left their homes and work to travel with Jesus for three years. Soon after the resurrection James was martyred, but Thomas travelled to India where he founded one of the first Christian Churches.

These people recognised the worth of Jesus and were prepared to give up everything and face anything for his sake. Jesus is worth just as much today, for you, for me and for everyone. What are you prepared to do or to dare for him ?

Whether the weather is wet or fine this summer, don’t forget to enjoy the long, light evenings and praise God for the light of his love which shines in the hearts of his people.

With every blessing,

Ann