Article by Phoenix writer Mika-Ella Accardi ’25:
On Saturday, December 14, the Aquinas League traveled to St. Barnabas Church in Bellmore to visit the relics of their patron saint, St. Thomas Aquinas.
The pilgrimage included 12 Juniors and Seniors of the Aquinas League along with Mr. John Ruhl and Mrs. Marilyn Gaspe. St. Thomas Aquinas is not only the patron saint of the Aquinas League, but also the patron saint of students. After attending mass celebrated by Bishop Andrzej, the group had the opportunity to listen to preaching about St. Thomas and the history of the relic. They were also able to pray before his skull, and ask for his intercession for all the students preparing for their exams.
One member of the Aquinas League, Senior Hunter Ciolli, remarks on his experience during the pilgrimage: “The Mass production, preaching, and the incredible sight of St. Thomas’ relic was altogether one of the most impactful moments of faith I had ever had. I felt an overwhelming sense of connection to St. Thomas and felt empowered to share in his empathic devotion towards God. This entire experience demonstrated what it means to truly be in God’s grace, and I witnessed this through the acts of worship and prayer that were dedicated to this holy relic of St. Thomas Aquinas.”
When asked about how he felt being able to share this memorable experience with the
students, Mr. Ruhl, one of the moderators of the Aquinas League, replied, “I think it was an
opportunity for students to experience the universality of the church and also the closeness of the church by spending time with the relics of a saint who lived 800 years ago.”
The Aquinas League is very grateful for this wonderful experience which would not have been possible without the Dominican Friars. They are extremely excited to continue to build a relationship with the Dominicans of the parish.
