Saint Dismas

Patron Saint of prisoners, the condemned, penitent thieves, death-row inmates, repentance at the hour of death.

Feast Day: March 25th

Martyr and Layperson

Judea

Public Domain: Ubekendt spansk mester – The Good Thief (Saint Dismas) – KMS8561 – Statens Museum for Kunst via Wikimedia Commons.

Feast Day: March 25th

Martyr and Layperson

Judea

About

Saint Dismas is remembered as the “Good Thief” crucified alongside Jesus on Calvary. Though little is known about his early life, tradition holds that he was a thief who lived in Judea during the first century. Condemned to death for his crimes, he found himself crucified at Christ’s right hand. While the other criminal mocked Jesus, Dismas rebuked him, acknowledging his own guilt and professing faith in Christ’s innocence and kingship. In that moment of humility, he turned to Jesus and said: “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luke 23:42). The Lord responded with one of the most comforting promises in Scripture: “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43). With this, Dismas became the first saint canonized directly by Christ Himself. His story is a powerful witness that no one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy, even at the final hour.

Legacy

Saint Dismas represents hope for every sinner who turns to Christ with repentance. His example shows that salvation is not about a perfect past but about trust in Jesus’ mercy. Many Catholics invoke him as a patron for prisoners, the condemned, and those seeking conversion late in life. His witness continues to inspire people to believe that it is never too late to return to God.

“Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” — Saint Dismas (Luke 23:42)