Early Life and Calling
Saint Thomas Aquinas was born in 1225 in Roccasecca, a castle in the Kingdom of Sicily (now part of Italy). He was the youngest son of Count Landulf of Aquino, a noble family with strong connections to the church and political rulers of the time. From an early age, Thomas displayed an exceptional intellect and a deep inclination toward spiritual matters. At the age of five, he was sent to the Benedictine Abbey of Monte Cassino, where he received his foundational education. His family envisioned a future for him as a powerful abbot, yet God had destined him for a different path.
As he grew, Thomas sought to join the newly established Order of Preachers—the Dominicans. His decision was met with fierce resistance from his family, who preferred a more prestigious ecclesiastical role. His brothers even kidnapped him and imprisoned him in their castle for over a year, attempting to dissuade him through persuasion and even temptation. Yet, Thomas remained steadfast, dedicating his time in captivity to prayer and study. Eventually, his mother arranged his escape, recognizing that his calling was truly from God.
A Life of Study and Teaching
Thomas joined the Dominicans and was sent to study under Saint Albert the Great in Cologne. His humility and silence earned him the nickname “the Dumb Ox,” but Albert famously declared, “This ox will one day fill the world with his bellowing.” Indeed, Thomas’s intellect soon became undeniable.
He traveled to Paris, where he studied and later taught at the University of Paris, one of the most prestigious centers of learning in Europe. His works combined faith with reason, using the philosophy of Aristotle to clarify and defend Christian doctrine. His Summa Theologica, a monumental work of theology, remains one of the greatest intellectual achievements of the Church.
Visions and Mystical Encounters
Despite his intellectual brilliance, Thomas was also a mystic. It is said that during prayer, he often received divine revelations. One such encounter occurred in 1273, when he had a vision of Christ, after which he ceased writing, declaring, “All that I have written seems like straw compared to what I have seen.”
Holy Death and Canonization
While traveling to the Second Council of Lyons in 1274, Thomas fell ill. He was taken to the Cistercian abbey of Fossanova, where he spent his final days in humility and prayer. Surrounded by monks, he received the Holy Eucharist for the last time, uttering his great act of faith: “I receive Thee, ransom of my soul, for whose love I have studied and labored.” He passed into eternal glory on March 7, 1274.
Recognized for his immense contributions to theology and philosophy, Thomas Aquinas was canonized in 1323 by Pope John XXII and later declared a Doctor of the Church. His legacy continues to inspire scholars, theologians, and faithful believers, guiding them toward the harmony of faith and reason.
Saint Thomas Aquinas, pray for us!