Feast of Saint Thomas Aquinas
Scripture:
2 Samuel 6:12b-15, 17-19
Mark 3:31-35
Reflection:
In the gospel of today, Jesus reminds us, ‘The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.’ Saint Thomas Aquinas, priest, Doctor of the Church, theologian, teacher, was a brilliant but simple man. He wrote extensively, counseled important leaders, including several popes, taught in great universities, and is known as the patron of all Catholic educational institutions. Yet, he was never comfortable with accolades and places of honor which others tried to heap upon him. He maintained his life as a Dominican friar in a humble manner. He was seen as great among peers yet all he wanted to do was serve, whether that was done in his teaching, preaching, writing or counseling, he never strayed from the example of Jesus Christ. As a Church we owe a great debt of gratitude to Thomas for his gift of learning but even more so his model of humility and simplicity. As we celebrate this Catholic Schools Week across the nation, may we recommit ourselves to providing an excellent Catholic education rooted in the teaching and lifestyle emulated by Saint Thomas Aquinas.
Theresa Secord is a Pastoral Associate at St. Agnes Parish, Louisville, Kentucky.