January 28. Thomas Aquinas.   Just as there have been great political leaders throughout history there have been wise men, teachers and philosophers.  St Thomas Aquinas, a contemporary of St Francis, living in the 13th century is still seen as one of the great teachers of the church.  His writings form a foundation for the training of priests. Are we as lay family people interested in learning more about theology, philosophy or, at a practical level, Catholic social teaching, especially the newer insights into the care of creation from encyclicals like Laudato Si’. Do we encourage our family to do so?

Scripture.  I prayed and understanding was given to me.  I entreated and the spirit of Wisdom came to me. Compared with her I held riches as nothing. Wisdom 7:7.  Pope Francis. The great sages of the past run the risk of going unheard amid the noise and distractions of an information overload.  LS 47.  Today many people have no experience of God himself and this represents the greatest poverty and the major obstacle to recognition of the inviolable dignity of human life.  FM18. Reflect, share, act, pray.