Saint Dismas is the penitent thief crucified beside Jesus on Calvary, known from the Gospel of Luke, where he rebuked his companion and asked, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' Jesus answered him, 'Today you will be with me in Paradise.' His name comes from early Christian tradition rather than Scripture, and the Roman Martyrology commemorates him on March 25, the day also kept as the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord.
Dismas shows that it is never too late to turn to God — a single moment of honest trust, offered at the very end of life, was enough to open heaven. He reminds us that God's mercy is greater than any past, and that Jesus stays close to those who suffer, answering even the simplest prayer with a promise of Paradise.
Lord Jesus, who promised Paradise to the good thief in his final hour, remember us and those we love in your kingdom, and give us his humble, trusting heart. Amen.Enter today’s Mass → All saints →