Thomistic Studies & Catholic Education

In 1879, Pope Leo XIII issued his Encyclical Letter *Aeterni Patris*, which called for a renewed study of the philosophical thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, known as the Angelic Doctor. The primary objective of Aeterni Patris was to decisively reestablish Thomism within Catholic educational institutions, fostering a dynamic interplay between faith and reason. Pope Leo XIII clearly understood the significant harm inflicted on both society and religion when reason is prioritized over faith.

This appeal led to a revival of Thomism, often referred to as "neo-Thomism," which became a major intellectual force influencing the Church and the world in the lead-up to the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965). After the Council, many believed that Thomism had fulfilled its purpose, suggesting that thinkers should now focus on integrating the best of late modern thought—shaped by neo-Thomism—in light of the Council's teachings. 

In 1998, as the 20th century drew to a close, Pope St. John Paul II released the Encyclical Letter *Fides et Ratio*. In this document, he encouraged the study of the thoughts of St. Thomas Aquinas and their adaptation to meet the challenges of the 21st century. 

In theology, the content of subjects addressed in St. Thomas’s Summa Theologica offers students and educators a pithy supplement to understanding the four pillars outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

In classical Catholic liberal education, Aquinas's model of constructive cross-cultural dialogue serves as a guide for the pursuit of truth throughout the ages. This style complements

 the Socratic circle dialogues employed in classical classrooms throughout millennia.