Posted by Monica Stiles, ’12 Psychology and Catholic Studies

On Saturday, January 28, the Church celebrated the feast day of St. Thomas Aquinas. As students at a liberal arts University, we have a lot to thank Aquinas for. His work with philosophy and theology has shaped much of not only what the Church teaches, but also even some secular views of morality and ethics. We are so blessed to have such a brilliant, impactful, and holy man as our patron.

As a Catholic Studies student with a relative understanding that this world is so much greater than what any human’s intelligence can grasp, starting yet another semester makes one sometimes want to quote what Aquinas said after giving up writing, “I cannot go on…. All that I have written seems to me like so much straw compared to what I have seen and what has been revealed to me.” (http://www.americancatholic.org/features/saints/saint.aspx?id=1274). Now, I would venture to guess that what has been revealed to me has not been quite as great as what was revealed to St. Thomas Aquinas. However, sometimes it seems that I cannot go on with all this “straw”. And yet, the gift that the Lord has given to us through Aquinas’ work is irreplaceable. So, students, let us remember as we go into yet another semester of papers, exams, late night studying, and many many coffee breaks, that if we allow it, our work is the work of the Lord.

 St. Thomas Aquinas Prayer

Grant, O merciful God, that I may ardently desire,

prudently examine, truthfully acknowledge,

and perfectly accomplish what is pleasing to Thee

for the praise and glory of Thy name. Amen.