St. Peter Thomas
Saint Peter Thomas
When They Lived:
Saint Peter Thomas, also known as Saint Peter Thomas of Villanova, lived during the late 13th and early 14th centuries. He was born in 1255 and passed away in 1323.
Where They Lived:
Saint Peter Thomas was born in the town of Bilbao, which is located in the Basque region of Spain. He later lived and served as a Carmelite friar in various locations, including Spain and Italy.
Notable World Events During the Time of Their Life:
- The Reign of King Edward I of England (1272-1307): This was a significant period in English history marked by the conquest of Wales and conflicts with Scotland. Saint Peter Thomas’s life overlapped with this era of English expansion.
- The Mongol Empire: During Saint Peter Thomas’s lifetime, the Mongol Empire, led by rulers like Kublai Khan, continued to exert its influence over vast territories in Asia and Eastern Europe. This global event highlighted the interconnectedness of different regions.
- The Renaissance (14th Century): Although the Renaissance began in Italy, its cultural and artistic impact would soon spread across Europe. Saint Peter Thomas lived at the cusp of this transformative period, which would shape the course of history.
Their Patronage:
Saint Peter Thomas is the patron saint of the Carmelite Order. He is revered for his contributions to the Carmelite tradition and his commitment to the ideals of poverty, contemplation, and service. His life and teachings continue to inspire Carmelite communities and individuals seeking spiritual guidance.
Saint Peter Thomas’s story is one of devotion and a testament to the tumultuous times in which he lived. His unwavering commitment to the Carmelite order and his witness to the broader events of his era make him an intriguing figure to explore in the context of both religious and historical studies.
Early Life
Saint Peter Thomas is a highly respected saint in the Roman Catholic Church. This Carmelite Priest and Papal legate, however, has limited biography information available.
Little is known about what Saint Peter Thomas did all his life.
Saint Peter Thomas was born approximately in the year 1305 in Southern Perigord, France. Often called Pierre Tomas in some books of literature,Peter Thomas was born into an extremely poor family.
Some parts of history recognize his father as a laborer who worked for a rich lord in the town. All parts of history, however, make it known that the family was so poor that they had very little to get by on.
After the death of his brother, Saint Peter Thomas decided to venture out of town in search of greener pastures. He left his home to lessen the burden on his family and instead went to the small town of Montpazier.
In Monpazier, he saw himself through school. He sustained himself by begging for alms and tutoring younger students.
After three years of living in Monpazier, he moved on to Argen. Details of what he did during his stay are nonexistent. What is known is that he lived on alms and taught, just like he did in Monpazier.
He continued like this until the age of 20, when he moved back to Montpazier.
Dedication and Devotion
- He went on to make his religious vows at Bergerac, where he ended up
teaching for two years.
Legacy
Saint Peter spent most of his life serving the Church.
He was appointed Prosecutor General of the Order and an official minister at the Papal Court of Pope Clement VI in Avignon. There, his devout righteousness and dedication to religion drew attention and respect.
For some time, he held the position of Papal legate to Milan, Genoa, and Venice. By 1354, he had been appointed Bishop of Patti and Lipari.
It is said that he served as Bishop of Coron for some time in 1359 before he was elected Archbishop of Crete in 1363. Circa 1364, he was made Latin Patriarch of Constantinople.
Saint Peter Thomas joined the fight against the Turks.
In 1365, he joined a military operation fighting Alexandria, Egypt, in which he became seriously injured.
Death and Canonization
Saint Peter Thomas succumbed to his injuries and died in 1366 at Famagusta, Cyprus.
It is recorded that before he died, he gave all his properties to charity.
In 1608, He was beatified by Pope Paul V and then canonized in 1628 by Pope Urban VIII.
He is celebrated every year on the 6th of January.
5 Interesting Facts About St. Peter Thomas
- Did you know that Saint Peter Thomas’ primary aim was to stimulate
peace and harmony with the Eastern Churches? - Did you know that Peter is derived from the Greek word ‘Petros?
meaning stone, and Thomas from the Aramaic word ‘Ta’oma, meaning
twin? - Did you know that in his time, Saint Peter Thomas was respected in
both Catholic and Orthodox Churches? - Did you know that many people consider Saint Peter Thomas the
forerunner of ecumenism? - Did you know that some historical writers think Saint Peter died at
2 a.m?
Prayer to St. Peter Thomas
Father,you inspired in your bishop, St. Peter Thomas, an intense desire to promote peace and Christian unity. Following his example, may we live steadfastly in faith and work perseveringly for peace. We ask this through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.
Source:[https://www.carmelite.org/carmelite-spirituality/saints-of-carmel/st-peter-thomas]{.ul}
