Saint Thomas Aquinas
Stories
Lectionary Tales For The Pulpit
Series II Cycle B
Thomas Aquinas, the great philosopher, theologian, and teacher, is the patron saint of Roman Catholic universities, colleges, and schools.
Thomas Aquinas, born in the mid-1220s, was the son of Count Landulph of Aquino and Countess Theodora of Teano. He was related to the Emperors Henry VI and Frederick. Thomas could have been destined for fame through the military or royalty. But a "holy hermit" had predicted that this young boy was going to be a preacher and have learning and teaching so great that no one could even come close to his scholarly excellence. And his personal devotion and lifestyle would be above reproach by anyone.
The hermit's words came true. At an early age Thomas was sent to learn from the Benedictine monks. This was customary in those days. It is said he was witty, precocious, and had thoughtfulness above his years. Many writings attest that he learned with ease because he had perfect recall. He also never began his studies until he prayed in earnest. He surpassed his teachers with his knowledge and insight into the lessons.
The religious life was what Thomas wanted more than anything. The city fathers could not understand that a nobleman should become a priest. His mother was also confused, sending Thomas' brothers to kidnap him. He was imprisoned for two years while his family tried to change his mind. They even tried to tempt him with a woman. But Thomas evicted her from his chambers and asked God to grant him integrity of body and of mind. When he was asleep he had a vision that angels gave him a girdle of virginity.
His mother seemed to understand Thomas' seriousness about his vocation. As soon as he was freed, he was sent to Rome by the Dominican brothers. They were thrilled that during his imprisonment Thomas had memorized scriptures and had solidified his vocational desire. He was sent to learn and teach in various places, amazing the teachers and students with his humility and knowledge.
Thomas gave up the chance for nobility for the life of a monk, dedicating his learning to teaching, writing, and defending the Christian truth. He tearfully turned down the offer to become archbishop of Naples, his birthplace. He felt he wasn't good enough and he wanted to remain a monk. His greatest writing, Summa Theologica, instructed theology students with a summary of Christian philosophy.
Thomas Aquinas died in 1274 after being convinced that he would receive no more holy visions. He was canonized in 1323 and in 1880 was named the patron saint of Roman Catholic institutions of learning.
May God bless us as we consider emulating the dedication of Saint Thomas Aquinas.
Thomas Aquinas, born in the mid-1220s, was the son of Count Landulph of Aquino and Countess Theodora of Teano. He was related to the Emperors Henry VI and Frederick. Thomas could have been destined for fame through the military or royalty. But a "holy hermit" had predicted that this young boy was going to be a preacher and have learning and teaching so great that no one could even come close to his scholarly excellence. And his personal devotion and lifestyle would be above reproach by anyone.
The hermit's words came true. At an early age Thomas was sent to learn from the Benedictine monks. This was customary in those days. It is said he was witty, precocious, and had thoughtfulness above his years. Many writings attest that he learned with ease because he had perfect recall. He also never began his studies until he prayed in earnest. He surpassed his teachers with his knowledge and insight into the lessons.
The religious life was what Thomas wanted more than anything. The city fathers could not understand that a nobleman should become a priest. His mother was also confused, sending Thomas' brothers to kidnap him. He was imprisoned for two years while his family tried to change his mind. They even tried to tempt him with a woman. But Thomas evicted her from his chambers and asked God to grant him integrity of body and of mind. When he was asleep he had a vision that angels gave him a girdle of virginity.
His mother seemed to understand Thomas' seriousness about his vocation. As soon as he was freed, he was sent to Rome by the Dominican brothers. They were thrilled that during his imprisonment Thomas had memorized scriptures and had solidified his vocational desire. He was sent to learn and teach in various places, amazing the teachers and students with his humility and knowledge.
Thomas gave up the chance for nobility for the life of a monk, dedicating his learning to teaching, writing, and defending the Christian truth. He tearfully turned down the offer to become archbishop of Naples, his birthplace. He felt he wasn't good enough and he wanted to remain a monk. His greatest writing, Summa Theologica, instructed theology students with a summary of Christian philosophy.
Thomas Aquinas died in 1274 after being convinced that he would receive no more holy visions. He was canonized in 1323 and in 1880 was named the patron saint of Roman Catholic institutions of learning.
May God bless us as we consider emulating the dedication of Saint Thomas Aquinas.
