Thomas was born at Fuentellana, a lowly town of Spain. From early childhood he imbibed from his holy parents the virtues of charity and generosity towards the poor. In 1516 he joined the Augustinian Order and distinguished himself as a scholar in the reputed University of Alcala. The Emperor Charles V held Thomas in high esteem, named him the preacher of his court and a member of his Council. In the midst of the royal splendours, Thomas lived the life of a monk. Much to his embarrassment, in 1544 the See of Valencia was thrust upon him under obedience. The life of the new Archbishop was replete with acts of practical kindness. He established Crèches for the foundlings and offsprings of indigent parents. New hospitals were opened. Mechanics and tailors were provided with tools while farmers were supplied with quality seeds. The door of the Episcopal palace remained open 24 hours and about 500 poor people were fed everyday. His last act of generosity was to instruct those around him to send the bed on which he would die to the jail for prisoners’ use.
In the midst of overwhelming acts of humanitarian service, Bishop Thomas did not ignore the administration of his Diocese. He reformed the morals of the clergy and the laity with preaching, legislation and exemplary life. As the holy Bishop lay on his deathbed in Valencia on September 8, 1555, his last words were: “Father, into they hands, I commend my Spirit.” Thomas was canonized in 1658.
Reflection: One of the most remarkable virtues of this Augustinian monk turned Bishop was his positive thinking and practical approach to day-to-day life. He would never permit those around him to criticize some one who was absent. Thomas’s argument was quite simple yet meaningful; “He may have had a good reason for doing what he did.” Let our motto be: To think well of all, to speak well of all and to do good to all.
Is it not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice……..Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover them, and not hide yourself from your own kin? (Is. 58: 6-7)
