Stained glass window from St. Dominic’s Church in Washington, D.C. Photo by Fr. Lawrence Lew, O.P.

A renowned theologian, bishop, and Doctor of the Church, Albert (ca. 1200 – 1280) was born to a noble German family. Against their wishes he joined the Order of Preachers. The works of the great greek philosopher Aristotle had just been rediscovered, and the Dominicans were caught up in the wave of learning sweeping Europe. Albert lectured in several German priories and was director of studies in Cologne. His pupils included Thomas Aquinas. Called “Great” because of his vast knowledge of chemistry, architecture, philosophy, music, and mathematics, he helped organize the studies of the Dominican Order. In 1260 Albert was appointed bishop of Regensburg, Germany, but resigned two years later, believing that he could be more useful teaching. His writings include biblical and theological works, sermons, treatises on logic, metaphysics, ethics, and the physical sciences. He is that patron saint of students of the natural sciences.

The above excerpt is from Reflections of Dominican Spirituality: The Windows of St. Dominic Church, Washington, D.C. by Dr. Mary Moran.