St. Thomas Aquinas Novena
This novena honors St. Thomas Aquinas, the Angelic Doctor, whose theological writings—especially the Summa Theologiae—remain foundational for Catholic thought.
Novena to St. Thomas Aquinas - Day 1
Novena to St. Thomas Aquinas - Day 1
Opening Prayer
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
O God, who made St. Thomas Aquinas great by his zeal for holiness and his study of sacred doctrine, grant us the grace to understand what he taught and to imitate the example he set. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Our Father... Hail Mary... Glory Be...
The Angelic Doctor
St. Thomas Aquinas is honored as the Angelic Doctor, a title reflecting both the purity of his life and the brilliance of his intellect. Born into a noble Italian family around 1225, Thomas chose religious life over worldly ambition, joining the Dominican Order against the fierce opposition of his family.
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. The knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." — Proverbs 9:10
Thomas was called the "Dumb Ox" by his classmates because of his large build and quiet manner. Yet his teacher, St. Albert the Great, prophesied: "The bellowing of this ox will resound throughout the whole world." Thomas's genius was not merely intellectual; it was a gift of the Holy Spirit, nourished by prayer, fasting, and deep humility before the mystery of God.
Prayer
O Angelic Doctor, St. Thomas Aquinas, you who illuminated the Church with the light of sacred wisdom, pray for me that I may grow in knowledge and love of God. Help me to use my mind in the service of truth and my heart in the pursuit of holiness. Intercede for me especially for (mention your intention). Amen.
Devotion to St. Thomas Aquinas
Glorious St. Thomas, you who spent your life contemplating the mysteries of God and sharing that wisdom with the world, teach me to love truth above all things. Help me to see that all knowledge finds its fullness in Christ and that the highest wisdom is to know and love God. May my pursuit of learning always lead me closer to him. St. Thomas Aquinas, Angelic Doctor, pray for us. Amen.
Closing Prayer
St. Thomas Aquinas, patron of scholars and students, illuminate my mind with the light of divine truth. Help me to study with diligence, to learn with humility, and to teach with charity. May all my intellectual endeavors be directed to the glory of God and the service of others. Amen.
Three Our Fathers, three Hail Marys, and three Glory Be's.
St. Thomas Aquinas, pray for us and for all who seek truth.