St. Dismas: The Good Thief of Calvary
St. Dismas, traditionally known as the Good Thief, appears only once in Scripture—at the crucifixion of Christ. As recorded in Luke 23:39–43, he was one of two criminals crucified beside Jesus. Unlike the other, Dismas recognized Jesus’ innocence and divinity, crying out, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” To this, Christ replied with one of the most tender promises in all of Scripture: “Today you will be with me in Paradise.”
His moment of repentance and faith, offered in the final breaths of life, makes Dismas a profound figure of Holy Week, especially on Good Friday. He embodies the mystery of mercy—that even in the darkest hour, grace can break through. His story is read in many traditions during the Passion narratives, and in the Orthodox Church, his confession is echoed in the Communion Prayer: “Like the thief will I confess Thee…”
Though his feast day is March 25, it often overlaps with Holy Week, deepening the connection between his death and Christ’s redemptive sacrifice. Dismas reminds us that no one is beyond redemption, and that the gates of Paradise are open to all who turn to Christ—even at the eleventh hour.