1225 – 1274

Feast Day: January 28^th

Saint Thomas was born at the family castle in Italy. His father, Landulph, was the count of Aquino (“Aquinas” in Latin). He was sent to the Abbey of Monte Cassino to train among Benedictine monks when he was just 5 years old.  He remained at the monastery until he was 13 years old when he returned to Naples.

He showed much intelligence as a student and knew that his mind was a gift from God. He became a Dominican friar at the age of 17 against his family’s wishes. He continued with his studies and also studied in Germany and France. Saint Thomas was not only a Dominican priest, but he was also a teacher, a poet, and a writer.

Combining the theological principles of faith with the philosophical principles of reason, he is ranked as one of the greatest and most influential theologians and philosophers of all time. His greatest contribution to the Catholic Church is his writings.  One of his most well known writings being the Summa Theologica.

Canonized in 1323 and honored with the titles Doctor of the Church & Angelic Doctor.

Patron Saint of:

• Schools
• Universities & Colleges
• Students

“Grant me, O Lord my God, a mind to know you, a heart to seek you, wisdom to find you, conduct pleasing to you, faithful perseverance in waiting for you, and a hope of finally embracing you. Amen.”

―     St. Thomas Aquinas