Aquinas, Thomas (1225–1274)

Italian Dominican priest, philosopher, and theologian (Angelic Doctor of the Church), Thomas Aquinas was noted for systemizing theology by infusing ancient Greek philosophy, particularly Aristotle, with divine revelation as depicted by Judeo-Christian faith. Born at Roccasecca to nobleman Count Landulf and Countess Theodora (related to Emperor Fredrick II and Royalty in Spain and France), Aquinas received a classical education from the Benedictine monks at Monte Cassino and later received higher instruction (Trivium and Quadrivium) at the University of Naples. Aquinas, both educated and wealthy, rejected the rewards of the privileged class in favor of a humble and contemplative life associated with religious orders. Although the reasons for Aquinas wanting to join the Order of St. Dominic are a point of speculation, the news of Aquinas's entry into religious life was not well received by all; particularly by his mother Theodora, who imprisoned him for almost 2 years behind the walls of San Giovanni. As he was unrelenting in discerning his vocation, Theodora eventually released him to the Dominican Order.

After close inspection by Dominican superiors and Pope Innocent IV,Thomas Aquinas took his vows and continued his vocation to fulfillment. Among the administrative works, teaching, and ministry, Aquinas attended the University of Paris. Despite conflict between the university and religious Orders over an oath of loyalty, which ultimately caught the attention of both civil and papal authorities alike, Thomas Aquinas received a degree of Doctor of Theology in 1257. Before his death in1274, Thomas Aquinas was known for his intelligence and reserved nature. Toward the end of his life, Aquinas was said to have had more frequent religious experiences (ecstasy) that would eventually lead him to quit writing in 1273. Aquinas's writings are profound and influential. Among these writings include two important writings: Summa de veritate catholicae fidei contra gentiles (1252–1259) and Summa theologica (1266–1273). Thomas Aquinas was canonized by Pope John XXII in1323, and Pope Leo XIII declared Aquinas's written works as the true philosophy of the church in 1879.