Thomas Aquinas was a theologian, a scholar, a teacher, an author, and through all those roles, a leader who shaped the thinking and practicing of all those around.
- A brilliant intellect who also had a devout life of prayer.
- A scholar who had mystical experiences of the God whom he loved.
- He wrote carefully reasoned theology and beautiful poetry.
- He was immensely learned (perhaps the greatest of his day) and yet authentically humble.
- A man of great activity and yet rich in contemplation.
- He possessed a faith that sought after understanding and an intellect that practiced what it knew.