DORCAS
(dor' kuhs) GREEK: DORKAS
"gazelle"
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Also known as Tabitha, Dorcas was a Christian living in Joppa. She was known for her acts of charity, including the making of tunics and other garments for the poor. When Dorcas became ill and died, many mourned her. Learning that Peter was only 10 miles away in Lydda, the disciples sent two men to ask him to come to Joppa. Upon reaching the town, Peter secluded himself in an upper roon with the body of Dorcas, prayed, said, "Tabitha, rise," and - when she opened her eyes and extended a hand to him - called the others and "presented her alive" (Acts 9:40,41). The raising of Dorcas, the first such miracle by an apostle, gained many believers.
cf... E2 Dictionary of Biblical People