Dorcas (Tabitha)

Dorcas, also called Tabitha (her Aramaic name), was a disciple living in the coastal city of Joppa. She is one of the few women in the New Testament explicitly called a "disciple." Her faith expressed itself through tireless acts of charity—she was "full of good works and almsdeeds which she did."

Her particular ministry was making coats and garments for widows and the poor. In the ancient world, where clothing was expensive and labor-intensive to produce, this was a significant and practical expression of love. The widows she served treasured the garments as tangible evidence of God's care through His people.

When Dorcas fell sick and died, the disciples washed her body and laid her in an upper chamber. Hearing that Peter was nearby in Lydda, they sent two men urgently requesting his presence. When Peter arrived, the widows surrounded him weeping, showing him the coats and garments Dorcas had made while she was with them—a living testimony to a life well lived.

Peter sent everyone out of the room, knelt and prayed, then turned to the body and said, "Tabitha, arise." She opened her eyes, saw Peter, and sat up. He presented her alive to the saints and widows. News of this miracle spread throughout Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. Dorcas' story demonstrates that quiet, practical service to others is deeply valued by God.