Optional Memorial
of Saint Albert the Great, bishop and doctor of the Church
(Wisdom 6:1-11; Luke 17:11-19)
St. Albert has been justifiably called “the great” for
his many accomplishments. He excelled as
a scientist, a philosopher, and a theologian.
He also won the respect of both peers and superiors. He was elected provincial of his German
Dominican province spending much time defending the mendicant orders from their
detractors. He was also made a bishop
with the task of reforming his diocese.
Albert could hardly have been a proud man. Despite his achievements and high positions
he spent the last years of his life defending his student, St. Thomas
Aquinas. The latter, whose name today is
synonymous with Catholic orthodoxy, was accused of heresy for writing favorable
things about pagan philosophers. As one
who searched for truth, Albert did not allow the misjudgment to prevail. In the
quest for righteousness Albert heeded the advice of today’s first reading. The Book of Wisdom teaches that great people
must not exalt their own power. Rather,
they need to both study and follow the ways of the Lord.
Our minds do not likely measure up to Albert’s intellect. Nor is it probable that we have his
organizational capacity. But we can
emulate his holiness. We can be humble
before others. We can study and perhaps defend
the truths which the Church teaches. Most
of all, we can love God by seeking to do His will above everything else.
