Bastiampillai Anthonipillai Thomas


Bastiampillai Anthonipillai Thomas or "Father Thomas" was a Roman Catholic priest of the congregation of Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate and founder of the Rosarians Order.

Early life and education

Thomas was born on 7 March 1886 in Padiyanthalvu, Jaffna, Sri Lanka. He studied from St. Patrick's College, Jaffna. In 1903 he passed out from University of Cambridge. Since childhood he was of weak health.

Religious life

Thomas was compelled to become a priest after hearing the words “If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself, take up his cross and follow me” at a Sacred Scripture lesson. He was ordained a priest on 6 January 1912. Alfred Guyomard, the Bishop of Jaffna, invited Thomas to establish contemplative monasteries on the island. He was well versed in Hindu literature and the Hindu classics.

Death

Thomas died on 26 January 1964.

Beatification

Thomas was declared a Servant of God on 11 March 2006 by Pope Benedict XVI.