(1488-1555) The namesake and patron saint of the university in Pennsylvania that Pope Leo XIV attended, the “Father of the Poor” was born in Villanova, Spain, and became a university professor. He eventually joined the Augustinian friars, became a priest, and then a bishop of Valencia. Even with vast resources at his disposal, Thomas continued to live simply and care for the poor. He was reported to have gifts of healing, multiplication of food, and conversion of sinners. Many of his existing sermons were on mystic theology.
Despite Saint Thomas’ acclaim as a gifted preacher, some accounts suggest he suffered from absentmindedness and poor memory. Even the saints have their flaws, but God makes up for them. In Step 7, we surrender our need for control and “humbly ask Him to remove our shortcomings.”
“Let him inquire whether Saint Augustine and Saint John Chrysostom used anathemas and excommunication to stop the drunkenness and blasphemy which were so common among the people under their care” (Saint Thomas of Villanova on being gentle with sinners).
Reflection by Brad Farmer