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St. Albert the Great, also known as St. Albertus Magnus, was born in a castle in Germany in 1206. At the age of 14, he was well-known for his scientific knowledge and went to study in Italy.
When he was 17, St. Albert experienced an encounter with the Blessed Virgin Mary. This encounter moved him so much that he chose to become a member of the Dominican Order.
Surrounded by the rosary, the black and white cross is a symbol for the Dominican Order.
In 1248, St. Albert was sent to Germany to teach in universities and various religious houses. His most famous student was St. Thomas Aquinas, who had a rare intellectual gift which was recognized by St. Albert.
St. Thomas is seen with the sun on his chest to represent his devotion to the Blessed Sacrament.
St. Albert became Pope Alexander IV’s personal theologian. He was appointed bishop for a short time until her resigned to resume teaching.
The bishop’s mitre (tall hat) and violet zucchetto (head covering) indicate St. Albert’s office.
After resigning from his duties as bishop, St. Albert founded the University of Cologne in Cologne, Germany.
The crest of the university is at the top of his teaching chair. The University of Cologne is the oldest university in Germany and is still teaching students today.
There is little that St. Albert did not know or teach. He completed 38 volumes on his knowledge of scripture, philosophy, astronomy, physics, mathematics, theology, music, mineralogy, chemistry, zoology, architecture, biology, justice, and law. St. Albert taught that all knowledge was centered on God and His Truth.
A few of his volumes can be seen stacked next to his teaching chair.
St. Albert the Great died in 1280 surrounded by his brethren. In 1931 he was canonized and named a Doctor of the Church. His feast day is November 15th.
Dear Lord, grant us the fruit of the Holy Spirit of knowledge that we may use our intellect to better serve you as St. Albert the Great did.
St. Albert the Great, pray for us! Amen
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