Current Students

“A very happy Easter to everyone as we overcome our separation, not only through the help of technology, but especially through the bond of Christ uniting us in His mystical body,” began Head Chaplain Rev. Paul Raftery, O.P., in his Easter Vigil homily on Saturday night. “We are at this time witnessing in a special way to the spiritual union we have in Christ, united but apart in our various homes.”

Although the faithful may not be able to gather in person during this year’s Paschal Triduum and Easter Octave, all are invited to participate in the traditional rites and liturgies with Thomas Aquinas College. 

By Rev. Paul Raftery, O.P.
Head Chaplain, Thomas Aquinas College
Homily, Palm Sunday Mass
April 5, 2020

All of us chaplains here, Fr. Buckley, Fr. Marczewski, Fr. David, and myself wish Our Lord’s peace to everyone.

Fortunately we can be united in spirit for this Holy Sacrifice through the help of the Internet, as we have this very strange beginning to Holy Week. Not having access to our churches, nor to the sacraments.

In this unusual time of isolation, members of the Thomas Aquinas community have had to find creative ways to participate in the spiritual life of the College. This past weekend, they did just that, praying and worshiping together — even if not in the same space.

As a service to its students, alumni, and friends, Thomas Aquinas College will offer live video streaming of Masses and services for Holy Week and Easter via its website.

Thomas Aquinas is a famously low-tech college — students read printed copies of centuries-old books and residence halls lack WiFi — yet it nonetheless has successfully made the jump to online learning in just one week. How it accomplished this feat is a testament to God’s grace, made manifest in the diligence of its students, the resourcefulness of its faculty, and the generosity of one of its parents.

“I am pleased to report that, after a brief hiatus, Thomas Aquinas College is back in session,” observes President Michael F. McLean. “On Wednesday tutors from both of our campuses resumed classes with students across the country and the world.”

On Thursday evening Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a “stay at home” order for the State of California. As such, all students now must depart the California campus by the end of Friday night. Exceptions will be granted only in cases of extreme hardship, at the discretion of the Assistant Dean. Students who need help getting off campus should contact a prefect for assistance. We apologize for the difficulties this change will no doubt cause many, and ask for continued prayers during these trying times.

After President McLean announced at lunch Tuesday that students were to return to their homes, members of the Senior Class gathered for the above photo on the steps of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity Chapel.