APOSTOLIC PILGRIMAGE TO INDIA

ADDRESS OF JOHN PAUL II
ON OCCASION OF THE VISIT TO SAINT THOMAS MOUNT

Madras (India)
Wednesday, 5 February 1986

Dear Archbishop Arulappa,
Dear Brothers and Sisters of Madras,
"Let us also go, that we may die with him" .

With these words, Saint Thomas showed his desire to be with Jesus, even in the face of death. At the same time, Saint Thomas spoke these words to the other disciples to inspire in them a similar love for Jesus, to stir up in them the same courage and devotion.

"Let us also go, that we may die with him".

According to tradition, at this very place, which is now called Saint Thomas Mount, the great Apostle of India fulfilled his own exhortation. Out of love for Jesus, here in Madras, Saint Thomas died for Christ. He gave his life as a martyr for the sake of Christ and the Gospel.

Dear friends in Christ, and you especially, dear children: let us ask God for strong faith and courage. Let us love Jesus as Saint Thomas did. Let us offer him our lives day after day, so that we may live with him for ever.