“I prayed, and prudence was given me; I pleaded, and the spirit of Wisdom came to me.”
Wisdom 7:7
St. Thomas Aquinas (1224 – 1274) was born into a family of means related to the dynasty of Holy Roman emperors. His family hoped Thomas would follow an uncle to become abbot of the Benedictine monastery at Monte Cassino. Thomas instead chose the Dominicans, who were introducing radical changes in church life. Displeased, Thomas’ family imprisoned him for a year until, through the intervention of Pope Innocent IV, he was allowed to join the Dominican Order. Displaying an aptitude for theology, Thomas studied under St. Albert the Great; with whom he later started lecturing on theology at university and other locales. Appointed Master of Students, St. Thomas begin his writings.
The Summa Theologica is one of the works for which he is best remembered, published on this - the date of his Memorial. Adviser to popes, Thomas declined becoming an archbishop and abbot (of Monte Cassino), preferring humbleness, simplicity, and a life of contemplation. Today’s readings reflect well St. Thomas, “I preferred her to scepter and throne, and deemed riches nothing in comparison with her…” (Wis 7:8), and “Do not be called 'Master'; you have but one master, the Christ. The greatest among you must be your servant.” (Mt. 23:10-11).
Does my life reflect humbleness?
From St. Thomas Aquinas owns words, “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.”
Today’s Reflection is by:
Alan Gauzens
Did you know…
Alan Gauzens is a parishioner at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Dunedin. There, he is a lector and active in men’s ministries including the Knights of Columbus, That Man Is You! and Tap Into Discipleship. A 2019 graduate of the Lay Pastoral Ministry Institute, Alan and his wife Joanne have been married for 40 years and are blessed with 4 children.
