Saint Thomas Aquinas
A Doctor of the Church widely associated with students, teachers, theologians, and clear thinking.
- Feast day: January 28
- Life and era: 1224/25 to 1274; Italy, Paris, and Naples
- Role in the Church: Dominican friar, theologian, and teacher
- Common titles: Doctor of the Church, Dominican theologian, Patron of students
- Often asked for: students, teachers, theologians
When is Saint Thomas Aquinas's feast day?
Saint Thomas Aquinas's feast day is January 28.
For a broader explanation of how feast days work in Catholic life, read the feast day guide.
Biography and witness
Thomas Aquinas was an Italian Dominican theologian whose synthesis of Christian theology and Aristotelian philosophy shaped Catholic thought for centuries. His best-known works include the Summa theologiae and Summa contra gentiles. The Church honors him as a Doctor of the Church and commonly invokes him for students and teachers.
Why Catholics remember Saint Thomas Aquinas
Saint Thomas Aquinas is known for disciplined thought, theological clarity, and the pursuit of truth without fear.
What is Saint Thomas Aquinas the patron saint of?
Saint Thomas Aquinas is often associated with students, teachers, theologians.
Why people ask for the intercession of Saint Thomas Aquinas
People turn to Saint Thomas Aquinas for help with study, writing, clear thinking, exams, and intellectual discipline.
Common situations
- studying for exams
- writing or teaching
- wanting clarity in thought
Short prayer
Saint Thomas Aquinas, pray for me when my mind feels scattered and ask God for clarity and patience.