The Gospels don’t give his name. An early apocryphal writing called him Dismas, and the name stuck. He’s sometimes called the first canonized saint, since Jesus himself declared him in paradise. He’s the patron of prisoners, of the condemned, and of anyone who thinks it’s too late to turn to God.
Historical Context
A Prayer to St Dismas
St Dismas, you turned to Jesus in your last hour,
and he promised you paradise.
Pray for everyone who thinks they’ve gone too far to be forgiven.
Pray for prisoners, that they may find hope, change and mercy.
Pray for me, a sinner.
Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.
Amen.
For Someone in Prison
Lord, my loved one is in prison.
Protect them, give them hope, and help them change.
Keep our family connected.
Amen.
For the Dying
Lord, for those near death who have never turned to you,
give them the grace St Dismas received.
Amen.
For Prison Ministry
Lord, bless chaplains and volunteers who visit prisons.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- On Good Friday, remembering the cross.
- When a loved one is incarcerated.
- At the bedside of someone dying far from God.
Scripture Connection
“And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.” — Luke 23:42-43
The Good Thief had no time to make amends. He simply asked. It was enough.
Related prayers
For prisons, see the Correctional Officer Prayer. For a second chance, the Prayer to Be Born Again and Prayer Before Confession.