Tuesday, Sept. 16, marked the first meeting of the “Summa Theologica” study group, hosted by the Franciscan University chapter of the Thomistic Institute (TI).
The Thomistic Institute defines its mission as promoting “Catholic truth in our contemporary world by strengthening the intellectual formation of Christians at universities, in the Church, and in the wider public square. The thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the Universal Doctor of the Church, is our touchstone.” Founded by the Dominican order, the institute is a global organization that provides parameters on what each chapter is permitted to do.
The Franciscan chapter was started by Grace Simcox, a senior theology and philosophy major who transferred from Indiana University, where she was also involved in TI.
This study group session was hosted by TI executive, Chance Wilson. Upon arrival, participants were given a handout with a helpful guide on how to read and understand the “Summa Theologica.”
Before the study began, attendees had time to socialize and converse with members and visitors alike.
Executive McKenna Wilson said she joined the group because she “feel[s] super welcome, Grace is a girl’s girl and super relatable and makes theology sound interesting.”
Contemplative and philosophical discussions occurred even before the meeting officially began, with many students contributing to what felt like a challenging yet engaging intellectual exercise. Many contemplative and philosophical discussions occurred before the actual meeting began, with many students contributing to the exercise.
When asked why they were interested in being a part of this group, students gave varied answers.
Speaking on the benefits of the TI, McKenna Sullivan said, “None of the execs are in a household, but the intellectual formation we receive from Thomistic and “Summa” studies is important to the foundation of who we are. The way I want to see the world is through the lens of Thomism – it is important to the way I see the world.”
Chance Wilson opened the event with St. Thomas Aquinas’ “Prayer before Study” and defined Thomism in his own words.
“What it boils down to is that Thomism … isn’t just a sort of half-hearted respect for St. Thomas, nor is it pure agreement with him and every single thing he’s ever uttered. What Thomism is, is an endeavor to learn about Catholic theology as a disciple of St. Thomas.”
The group then examined the first chapter of the “Summa.” Each article in the chapters follows the same format: question, objection(s), “sed contra” (on the contrary), “respondeo” (response) and usually a reply to the objection(s).
Chance read aloud the “sed contra” and “respondeo,” summarized the content and opened the floor for questions, comments and discussions about what St. Thomas Aquinas addressed.
Though the meeting ran a bit long, it was considered both engaging and educational. It could be considered confusing to non theology/philosophy majors, but every member present was very accommodating and helpful answering audience questions.
The group will continue to meet every Tuesday at 7 p.m. in Egan Hall, room 118.