St. Albert, born as the eldest son of a wealthy German lord, pursued his education at the University of Padua. Despite strong family opposition, he joined the Dominican order around 1223, possibly after an apparition from the Blessed Virgin Mary. He furthered his studies in Padua, Paris, and Cologne, eventually being ordained as a priest. Brother Albert became a prominent teacher, particularly in Cologne, and by 1245, he earned the title of "Master of Theology" from the University of Paris, where he also held the Chair of Theology. Biographers describe him as deeply passionate about sacred knowledge, experiencing moments of divine inspiration. His writings encompass thirty-nine volumes covering diverse subjects like logic, metaphysics, theology, botany, astronomy, and more. Albert believed that all knowledge connects to theology since it originates from God. Albert significantly influenced Saint Thomas Aquinas by helping him integrate Aristotelian thought into Christian teachings. Aquinas later wrote the influential "Summa Theologiae." In 1254, Albert became provincial superior of the Dominican Order, adding administrative responsibilities to his academic role. Pope Alexander IV appointed him Bishop of Regensburg in 1260, where his humility helped heal diocesan divisions. After resigning, he continued his academic work through diplomatic missions. St. Albert the Great, enlightened by the Holy Spirit, passed away on November 15, 1280, and was buried in Cologne. He was declared a saint and doctor of the Church by Pope Pius XI on December 15, 1931, and was named the patron saint of the natural sciences by Pope Pius XII on December 16, 1941.
Prayer:
O God, who did richly adorn St. Albert with your heavenly gifts and decorated him with all virtues, grant that, following in his footsteps, we may persevere in your service until death and securely obtain an everlasting reward. Amen.
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