SAINT OF THE DAY · SEPTEMBER 22

Who was Saint Thomas of Villanova?

Saintly Editorial 2 min read
In short

Saint Thomas of Villanova: A bishop who made mercy visible. Lived circa 1488 to 1555. Born in Fuentellana, Spain. Augustinian friar and archbishop. Patron of Valencia and Genzano. Known as Father of the Poor. Saintly remembers this saint on September 22.

  • Lived circa 1488 to 1555
  • Born in Fuentellana, Spain
  • Augustinian friar and archbishop
  • Patron of Valencia and Genzano
  • Known as Father of the Poor

Who was Saint Thomas of Villanova?

Thomas grew up in Villanueva de los Infantes after being born in Fuentellana. His father worked as a miller. His family had little wealth, yet their home welcomed the poor. His parents gave bread, clothing, seed, and money. Their charity formed Thomas before books or honors entered his life. More was waiting.

As a young student at Alcalá, Thomas became known for learning. He taught logic and philosophy while still very young. His studies brought respect, but his parents’ example remained stronger. When his father died, Thomas gave away much of his inheritance to support poor girls and a hospital. Then he chose a new road.

In 1516, Thomas entered the Order of Saint Augustine, a religious community shaped by prayer and common life. He was ordained a priest two years later. He taught theology and preached across Spain. His superiors also gave him leadership posts. Thomas accepted each duty as obedience, even when he wanted a quieter life.

Thomas became archbishop of Valencia in 1544, after first refusing another bishopric. He arrived wearing an old religious habit. The cathedral chapter offered money to furnish his residence. Thomas sent it to the hospital instead. He visited parishes, preached, corrected abuses, and founded a college for poor students. His door stayed open.

Hundreds of poor people came to Thomas each day. He arranged meals, wine, and money for them. He supported orphans and helped poor women marry. When pirates attacked a coastal town, he sent funds, clothing, and money for captives’ ransom. Some complained that dishonest people received help. Thomas answered that judging criminals belonged to civil officials.

Thomas cared for souls as carefully as bodies. He corrected priests with patience and defended people who were absent. He once welcomed a troubled canon into his own house for months. Quiet conversation and confession slowly changed the man. Thomas also urged wealthy Christians to use their possessions for mercy. His charity had both hands.

Thomas became ill in 1555. He ordered the money in his possession to be given to the poor. He gave away his belongings, even the bed on which he lay, lending it back until death. On September 8, Mass was celebrated near him. After Communion, he commended his spirit to God. His empty bed remained.

What can we learn from Saint Thomas of Villanova today?

  • Set aside one meal’s cost today for a person facing hunger.
  • Repair or reuse one possession, then give its saved value to charity.
  • Defend someone absent by naming the good intention others have overlooked.

Saint Thomas of Villanova shows how authority can become service. He governed a diocese, taught the faith, corrected wrongdoing, and still kept the poor at his door. His life challenges us to make mercy practical. A Christian home, parish, or workplace changes when compassion receives a daily budget.

When is the feast day of Saint Thomas of Villanova?

Saintly remembers Saint Thomas of Villanova on September 22, when the story above is the saint of the day in the app. Read how the Church declares someone a saint, or how to choose a patron saint.

Sources

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