On Sunday, April 19, 2026, the Patriarchate of Jerusalem solemnly celebrated Thomas Sunday with particular splendor in Cana of Galilee, in accordance with longstanding local ecclesiastical tradition.
The day commemorates both the confession of the Apostle Thomas—believed by local tradition to be from Cana—and the first miracle of Christ, the transformation of water into wine at the wedding feast, as described in the Gospel accounts.
The celebrations were presided over by Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, who had previously served as abbot in Cana. He received a warm welcome from scouts and the faithful before leading the Divine Liturgy. Concelebrating with him were Metropolitan Kyriakos of Nazareth, Archbishop Aristarchos of Constantina, Metropolitan Makarios of Akka, along with Arabic-speaking clergy and the local abbot, Archimandrite Leontios.
During the Divine Liturgy, the Patriarch delivered a homily focusing on the message of the Resurrection, encouraging the faithful to deepen their communion with Christ and to live in the light of the Risen Lord.
Following the service, a reception was held at the abbot’s residence, followed by a festive meal in the monastery hall, where greetings and addresses were exchanged. The Patriarch concluded his visit with pastoral calls to members of the local community, many of whom he has known since his earlier ministry in Cana.
Source: Patriarchate of Jerusalem
