St Peter Thomas, O. Carm., Bishop.

In the revised Carmelite calendar this is the feast of St Peter Thomas, O. Carm. At one time he was listed as both bishop and martyr as it was believed that he died of wounds received by the Mohammedans during the siege of Alexandria. Later research shows this not to be so. A letter from his secretary, Philip of Mezieres, says:

As the feast of Christmas drew near, my father presided in person at the divine services. In the middle of the night which ushered in the feast of he made his way from the Carmelite monastery where he was staying to the cathedral of Famagosta for the solemn celebration of Matins. He celebrated with full solemnity the three Masses of Christmas, but was affected by the cold and caught an infection in the throat, for he was weakened by fasting and vigils and wore only light clothing, following the example of the holy fathers of the desert.

Philip goes on to describe St Peter Thomas' holy death but, although he did preach and participate in a holy crusade, there is no mention of a Saracen wound.

A couple of years ago I recorded a short traditional biography of St Peter Thomas here. There is another much shorter precis of his life here.

The current collect for his feast:

Lord, You inspired in Your bishop St Peter Thomas an intense desire to promote peace and Christian unity. Following his example may we live steadfast in the fatih and work perseveringly for peace. We ask this through our Lord.

The collect from the old traditional liturgy:

Sancti Petri Thomae Martyris tui atque Pontificis, quaesumus, Domine, meritis et intercessione placatus : veniam delictorum nobis tribue; et ab omni pestilentiae morbo nos liberos esse concede. Per Dominum. Amen.

["Be Thou appeased, we beseech Thee, Lord, by the merits and intercession of Thy blessed martyr and bishop Saint Peter Thomas; grant us the pardon of our sins, and preserve us from the evils of pestilence: through our Lord. Amen."]