St. Thomas of Villanova, Bishop of Valencia

St. Thomas of Villanova (1488-1555) was a Spanish Catholic priest and bishop, known for his deep piety and compassionate care for the poor. Born in Fuenllana, he entered the Augustinian Order and later became the Archbishop of Valencia. As bishop, he was renowned for his dedication to serving the needy, establishing hospitals and schools, and using his wealth to aid the underprivileged. Celebrated for his humility, generosity, and commitment to social justice, St. Thomas of Villanova is the patron saint of students and the city of Villanova, Pennsylvania. He was beatified in 1618 and canonized in 1658 by Pope Alexander VII.