Saint Thomas of Villanova

Biography

Saint Thomas of Villanova, also known as Thomas of Villanueva, was born in 1488 in Fuentellana, Castile, Spain. He was the son of Alonzo Tomas Garcia, a miller, and Lucia Martinez. Thomas grew up in the town of Villanova, Spain, and received his education at the University of Alcala. After completing his studies, Thomas became a professor of arts, logic, and philosophy at the same university in 1514. During this time, he exhibited a strong commitment to intellectual pursuits and teaching. In 1516, Thomas joined the Augustinian friars at Salamanca, Spain. Two years later, in 1518, he was ordained as a priest, and he celebrated his first Mass on Christmas Day of that year. Thomas dedicated himself to preaching the Gospel and lived a life of great piety and selflessness. Despite suffering from absentmindedness and poor memory, Thomas served as a professor, preacher, prior, and provincial of the Augustinian friars. His dedication to spreading the message of Christ led him to send the first Augustinians to the New World. In 1544, Thomas was nominated by the emperor to the archbishopric of Granada, Spain. He initially refused the position, but he eventually accepted after being ordered to do so by the Pope. Thomas officially assumed his position as the Archbishop of Granada on January 1, 1545. Throughout his life, Thomas exhibited a profound dedication to helping the poor. When his cathedral provided him with money to furnish his house, he donated it to a hospital, stating, "What does a poor friar like myself want with furniture?" He wore the same habit he had received as a novice, repairing it himself despite the criticism and disapproval of others. Every day, several hundred poor individuals would come to Thomas' door seeking assistance. He would provide them with meals, wine, and money. When criticized for potentially enabling laziness, Thomas responded that it was the responsibility of the authorities to address those who refused to work, and his duty was to relieve and assist those in need. In addition to supporting the poor, Thomas also opened his home to orphans. He paid his servants for every deserted child they brought to him, ensuring that these children received the care and support they needed. Thomas encouraged the wealthy to follow his example, urging them to embrace a life of generosity and compassion. Even in dealing with sinners, Thomas displayed a gentle and compassionate approach. When criticized for not using harsh measures like anathemas and excommunication to combat sin, he stated, "Let them ask if Augustine or John Chrysostom used anathemas and excommunication to stop drunkenness and blasphemy." As Thomas neared his death, he commanded that all his money be distributed to the poor. Mass was celebrated in his presence, and after receiving the Eucharist, he recited the words, "Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit." Thomas passed away on September 8, 1555, in Valencia, Spain, from angina pectoris. After his death, Thomas left behind a number of theological writings, contributing to the theological and spiritual legacy of the Catholic Church. He was beatified on October 7, 1618, by Pope Paul V, and canonized on November 1, 1658, by Pope Alexander VII. Saint Thomas of Villanova is often represented in art as a bishop giving alms to the poor, symbolizing his lifelong dedication to helping those in need. He is the patron saint of Genzano di Roma, Italy. His feast days are celebrated on September 8 and October 10 by the Augustinians. The relics of Saint Thomas of Villanova are enshrined in the cathedral of Valencia, Spain, serving as a reminder of his profound impact and selfless devotion to serving the poor and marginalized.