Dismas (Good Thief)
Criminal crucified with Jesus who repented and received assurance of paradise through faith.
Patronage
Prisoners, condemned prisoners, criminals, those awaiting execution, repentance
Virtues & Traits
Biography
Dismas, known as the Good Thief, was one of two criminals crucified alongside Jesus Christ. Though he initially mocked Jesus along with the other thief, Dismas underwent a profound conversion while witnessing Christ's patient suffering and hearing his words of forgiveness. He rebuked his companion, acknowledged his own guilt, and defended Jesus' innocence. Most significantly, Dismas expressed faith in Jesus' future kingdom, asking to be remembered when Jesus came into his glory. Jesus responded with extraordinary mercy: 'Today you will be with me in paradise.' This immediate promise of salvation to a dying criminal exemplifies Catholic teaching on God's boundless mercy and the possibility of redemption even at life's end. Dismas became a symbol of conversion and repentance, representing that no sin is beyond God's forgiveness. Though he remains a somewhat mysterious biblical figure, his transformative encounter with Christ at the moment of death profoundly influenced Christian understanding of divine compassion.
Prayer
Prayer to Saint Dismas, the Good Thief
O glorious Saint Dismas, who in the final moments of thy earthly life didst turn to Jesus with sincere repentance and faith, obtaining the promise of Paradise, we beseech thee to intercede for us before the throne of God. Grant us the grace of true contrition for our sins, and help us to recognize Christ's mercy in all our trials. May we, like thee, find redemption through faith and the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Saint Dismas, pray for us. Amen.
Generated by Find My Saint for personal reflection. Not an official Church prayer.