1. St. Thomas Aquinas
1224-1275
“To one who has faith, no explanation is
necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is
possible.”
St. Thomas Aquinas
2. Early Life
B orn in Roccasecca, Naples, Italy, in the castle of
his father Landulf, Count of Aquinos.
R eceived his elementary education at the monastery
of Cassino, then studied for six years at the
University of Naples, until the age of 16.
A ssumed the habit of St. Dominic at the age of 17,
with much opposition from his family.
3. Theological Study
S tudied at the Dominican School in Cologne,
under the tutelage of Albertus Magnus. He followed
Albertus to Paris and studied under him for three
more years.
I n 1248 he graduated with a Bachelors. He was
immediately hired as a teacher. This marked the
beginning of his literary and public life.
I n 1257, he was named doctor of theology, calling
for him to travel from city to city within his order.
4. Late Life
I n 1272 he was commanded to return to Naples as
Professor.
I n 1274 he was invited to the second council at
Lyons, called to reunite the east and west churches.
Unfortunately, on his way his health took a turn for
the worse, and he passed away March 7, 1274.
5. Philosophy
R econciles theology with philosophy, revelation with
reason, faith with science.
S t. Thomas Aquinas showed that they are distinct
sciences, yet complimentary.
T o know all truth, one must rely on faith,
teachings of the prophets, personal revelation, and the
scriptures.
6. Summa contra Gentiles
“C ommentary on Aristotle.”
C ontains 4 Books: God, Creation,
Providence, and Salvation.
A rgues in favor of the Christian church.
7. Summa Theologiae
T
“ he Sum of Theology.”
I t is considered his greatest work.
L ays out key aspects of Christian theology.
D ivided into three parts.
