Saint Thomas Aquinas (circa 1225-1274) Patron of students, learning, and Catholic schools Thomas was born in Naples, Italy. At the age of five he was sent to learn from the Benedictine monks. He was a diligent student and devoted to prayer. He studied at the major universities of Europe. Thomas was loved for his kindness and willingness to share his knowledge. He was one of the greatest scholars the church has ever known. His Summa Theologica combines the wisdom of the ancient world with the message of Christianity in a way that even unlearned people understand.