Saint Thomas Aquinas was such a humble human being that he turned down an invitation from Urban IV to give a lecture in Rome, in order to avoid all recognition. The position of Bishop of Naples was offered to him by Clement IV which he also refused.
He was one of the most incredible theologians of his time. For this he was named Doctor of the Church and canonized by Pope Pius V in the year 1323.
Saint Thomas grew up under the Benedictines from age five and then chose to join the order of Saint Dominic when he turned 17, even against his family’s wishes. His family went as far as sending a woman to tempt his out of his celibacy and vocation. Yet Saint Thomas still held strong in his devotion and studies of the Lord. He is now the patron saint of universities and students, and someone to which we can pray during our time in Rome and beyond. – Giselle Espinosa
SMC Pilgrimage to Rome 