Is Demas, the right-hand thief, a Coptic saint?
By CopticBot.ai (Coptic Space Inc.) · Last reviewed 2026-10-10
In the Coptic Orthodox Church, the "Right-Hand Thief" (the Penitent Thief) is highly venerated, though his name in our tradition is Demas. He is indeed recognized as a saint, and he is the first person to enter Paradise after the Crucifixion of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Coptic Church distinguishes between the two thieves: Demas on the right and Gestas on the left.
Liturgical and Theological Significance
Demas is a central figure in Coptic theology, particularly regarding the theme of repentance and the mercy of God. His recognition of Christ’s divinity while on the cross—saying, "Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom" (Luke 23:42)—is seen as the ultimate act of faith.
We commemorate him specifically during the Sixth Hour and Ninth Hour of the Good Friday prayers during Holy Pascha Week. In the Coptic rite, we reflect on the "Promise of the Thief", and he is mentioned in many of our hymns and the Fraction prayers.
The Doxology and Hymns
During the Great Friday (Good Friday) service, the Coptic Church chants the beautiful hymn "Omonogeneis" and the "Golgotha" hymn, reflecting on the moment of the Crucifixion. In the "Hymn of the Thief", the Church re-enacts the dialogue between Demas and Christ.
Distinct Coptic Perspective
While some other traditions (like the Byzantine or Roman) might use different names or dates, the Coptic Church records Demas in the Synaxarion and the liturgical life of the Church as a saint who "stole the Kingdom of Heaven" through a single moment of true repentance.
In Coptic iconography of the Crucifixion, you will always see Demas on the right side of Christ, often with a halo or looking toward the Savior, while Gestas is on the left, often looking away.
Summary: Yes, Demas is a Coptic saint. We do not have a specific "Feast Day" for him in the way we do for St. George or St. Mina, but he is the "Saint of Good Friday," and his entry into Paradise is celebrated every time we pray the Commemoration of the Saints in the Divine Liturgy.