apostles who makes the most profound statement of faith in all of the four Gospels when he says of Jesus: "My Lord and my God"!

What happened to Thomas between the two visits of Jesus in today's Gospel? In a word, Community happened! The Church is the community of believers united by a common profession of faith that the Lord has been raised and that he lives in our midst! It is precisely in the midst of the believing community that God confirms the teaching of the apostles with signs and wonders.

The Church was founded by Christ to be the place where those in doubt about God's presence and his promises would be reassured through concrete signs, tangible help and genuine love! If the Lord is merciful and full of compassion, then the believing community must be His witnesses!

It was precisely when Thomas left the faith community gathered in the upper room that he lost contact with the risen Lord. Jesus appeared to them ~ as he promised, but Thomas missed this incredible moment! Why? In fear and grave disappointment, he walked away from his sisters and brothers in faith.

He left the Church. Thomas knew what he had to do. He returned to his companions in the faith. It was there, where he experienced the fulfillment of God's promise: "Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them" (Matthew 18:20).