Day of the Christian Martyr

Illustration of KandeFrom Thomas to KandeFAITHFUL WITNESSES IN INDIA FROM THE FIRST CENTURY TO TODAY

The Faithful Witness of Thomas and Kande

The Apostle Thomas is often thought of today as “doubting Thomas.” The truth is that he simply wanted to know if Christ’s Resurrection was real. Once he knew for sure, he took that message to the ends of the earth.

Historians believe his commitment to sharing about Jesus Christ was so strong that he traveled as far as India, preaching the gospel all along the way. He endured hardship and beatings, and ultimately was speared to death in southern India.

The seeds of the gospel that Thomas planted in India continue to bear fruit today, in Christians like Kande Mudu. Kande became a fervent evangelist after coming to faith in Christ, despite opposition from radical Hindus. Village elders pressured him to recant, but he remained faithful to the Lord. After Kande helped lead his three brothers to Christ, village elders knew there was no changing his heart ... so they killed him.

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Video, Slides and PDFs

Day of the Christian Martyr is a special time when Christians remember those who have given their lives for the advancement of the gospel. This month, we hope you will be inspired by their faithful witness, committing to share Christ boldly in your own community.

Download this Digital Resource Kit to use in person or online with your family, group, class or church. All digital resources are also available in Spanish.

Includes:

  • Day of the Christian Martyr | 2025 video
  • Questions for Reflection
  • Bulletin Inserts
  • Social Media Graphics
  • Prayer Slides
  • Sermon Outline
  • Conversation Guide: Talking with Children About Persecuted Christians
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What is Day of the Christian Martyr?

According to church tradition, June 29 marks the martyrdom of the Apostle Paul. This month, join Christians around the world in remembering the faithful witness of those who, like Paul, have given their lives for the advancement of the gospel. And be inspired by their example to have that same boldness to share Christ in your community.

Inspire your family, group, class or church to be bold witnesses for Christ at any cost.

“The disciples said to him, ‘Rabbi, the Jews were just now seeking to stone you, and are you going there again?’ … Then Jesus told them plainly, ‘Lazarus has died. ... But let us go to him.’ So Thomas, called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, ‘Let us also go, that we may die with him.’ ”

—John 11:8–16

Global Hymn Sing

Our friends Keith and Kristin Getty are hosting the 2025 Global Hymn Sing, a day of worship and witness held in solidarity with the Day of the Christian Martyr. To learn more about this special global effort or to access the free resources from the Gettys, visit www.globalhymnsing.com.

Global Hymn Sing on June 29, 2025. Millions of Believers, Thousands of Churches, Many Tongues, One Voice.