From the Rector, The Most Holy Trinity, 6/4/2023

Saint Thomas Aquinas, the Eucharistic Doctor

The Eucharistic sacrifice “is the fount and apex of the whole Christian life” (Lumen
gentium, 11).

Throughout the history of the Church, there have been men and women who
understand this fundamental principle of the Catholic faith, and, by their ways of life and
their teachings, help others enter into this reality. Among these is one of the most learned
men in history: St. Thomas Aquinas. This “Angelic Doctor,” as he is known, devoted his
entire life to the Lord, centering every act of his day around the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass
and the Real Presence of Christ in the tabernacle. It was his devotion to the Eucharist
which, though often unmentioned due to a focus on his philosophical and theological
teachings, has earned him the title, among others, of “Doctor of the Eucharist” (Studiorum
ducem, 23).

To better comprehend the Eucharistic spirituality of the Eucharistic Doctor, it
will prove helpful to encounter him in his life, his teaching, and his prayer. We will do this
throughout the month of June in these bulletin articles. May Saint Thomas Aquinas help
each of us draw nearer to the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament of the Altar!

This week’s FORMED.org recommendation: St. Thomas Aquinas | Catholic Saints
The Holy Eucharist with Bishop Robert Barron