Saint Thomas Aquinas (1225 – 7 March 1274), was a Doctor of the Church, Philosopher, Theologian, Jurist, Dominican Friar, and Priest. Known as Doctor Angelicus "Angelic Doctor," and the Doctor Communis "Universal Doctor" his writings serve as a defense and proof of the validity of Christ's authority over all. The Summa contra Gentiles (also known as Liber de veritate catholicae fidei contra errores infidelium, "Book on the truth of the Catholic faith against the errors of the unbelievers"). The Summa contra Gentiles consists of four books. The structure of Saint Thomas's work is designed to proceed from general philosophical arguments for monotheism, to which Muslims and Jews are likely to consent even within their own respective religious traditions, before progressing to the discussion of specifically Christian doctrine. Book II is dedicated to the Creation (in other words, the physical universe, everything which exists). Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student of religion, or simply curious about the impact of the Roman Catholic Church on the world, this playlist is designed to provide an informative and engaging journey through its captivating past. Subscribe to the Contemplating History channel for more educational content and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history.
01 July 2026
Summa Contra Gentiles, Book II: IX That God’s Power Is His Action
From Contemplating History
Saint Thomas Aquinas (1225 – 7 March 1274), was a Doctor of the Church, Philosopher, Theologian, Jurist, Dominican Friar, and Priest. Known as Doctor Angelicus "Angelic Doctor," and the Doctor Communis "Universal Doctor" his writings serve as a defense and proof of the validity of Christ's authority over all. The Summa contra Gentiles (also known as Liber de veritate catholicae fidei contra errores infidelium, "Book on the truth of the Catholic faith against the errors of the unbelievers"). The Summa contra Gentiles consists of four books. The structure of Saint Thomas's work is designed to proceed from general philosophical arguments for monotheism, to which Muslims and Jews are likely to consent even within their own respective religious traditions, before progressing to the discussion of specifically Christian doctrine. Book II is dedicated to the Creation (in other words, the physical universe, everything which exists). Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student of religion, or simply curious about the impact of the Roman Catholic Church on the world, this playlist is designed to provide an informative and engaging journey through its captivating past. Subscribe to the Contemplating History channel for more educational content and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history.
Saint Thomas Aquinas (1225 – 7 March 1274), was a Doctor of the Church, Philosopher, Theologian, Jurist, Dominican Friar, and Priest. Known as Doctor Angelicus "Angelic Doctor," and the Doctor Communis "Universal Doctor" his writings serve as a defense and proof of the validity of Christ's authority over all. The Summa contra Gentiles (also known as Liber de veritate catholicae fidei contra errores infidelium, "Book on the truth of the Catholic faith against the errors of the unbelievers"). The Summa contra Gentiles consists of four books. The structure of Saint Thomas's work is designed to proceed from general philosophical arguments for monotheism, to which Muslims and Jews are likely to consent even within their own respective religious traditions, before progressing to the discussion of specifically Christian doctrine. Book II is dedicated to the Creation (in other words, the physical universe, everything which exists). Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student of religion, or simply curious about the impact of the Roman Catholic Church on the world, this playlist is designed to provide an informative and engaging journey through its captivating past. Subscribe to the Contemplating History channel for more educational content and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history.
Scott Hahn: Pope Leo's Warning About AI
From Catholic Truth Society
What does the Catholic Church teach about artificial intelligence? Can AI replace human creativity, wisdom, or even the way we read Scripture?
The Story of Queen Victoria & Her Comical Coronation. Funny Royal Stories. What Is a Coronation Like?
From History Calling
The STORY OF QUEEN VICTORIA and her record-breaking reign began with a COMICAL CORONATION in Westminster Abbey on 28 June 1838. Indeed it is one of the fun facts about Queen Victoria, a woman who would go on to become arguably Britain’s most famous monarch, that her time on the throne began in such a haphazard fashion, with a peer of the realm who literally fell at her feet (though not on purpose), a painful mishap with the coronation ring, an altar which was turned into a buffet table and an ill-prepared and perhaps rather dozy Bishop, who managed to miss out crucial bits of the ceremony when he accidentally turned two pages in a book at once. The British coronation ceremony is supposed to be a sombre affair, full of meaning and centuries of tradition, but this young woman’s became one of the many funny royal stories which pop up within the British royal family through the ages. This teenage monarch and record breaking royal took it all in good spirits however and it certainly had no negative impact on the life of Queen Victoria. If you’ve ever wondered though, what is a coronation like, especially when it goes wrong, this History Calling video is for you. It will also explain how the ceremony was altered because of Victoria’s gender, mention the Crown jewels of England and show what is perhaps the most famous throne in the world; St Edward’s Chair. Much of the history you’ll hear here will be drawn from Queen Victoria’s diary, in which she provided an insider’s view of the whole ceremony and its many idiosyncrasies.
5 Ways To Combine Faith and Your Family Road Trip
Thanks to my health, my travelling days are over, but I've visited Churches and Shrines all over North America, from Mexico to Canada.
From Aleteia
By Rose Bryan
Both your own ancestors and our brothers and sisters in the Communion of Saints can give "family" a deeper meaning, one that your kids will treasure for years.Road trips have a special magic about them, especially when family, friendship, and faith travel together. While big attractions and theme parks have their place, the most cherished memories often come from the unexpected stops along the way — quiet moments that draw hearts closer to God and to one another. Here are five simple, low-cost ideas to make your next family vacation a pilgrimage of joy and discovery.
1Research the route through the lens of faith and family heritage
Before you pack the car, take time to explore the Catholic and family story of the regions you’ll cross. Look into the settlers, missionaries, and Catholic communities who shaped the towns along your path. If your own ancestors lived in or passed through the area, trace their footsteps.
My family visited an old historic home once owned by our forebears. The children learned how our ancestors farmed, prayed, and built a life from the land. Years later, they still speak of it with awe. Discovering shared heritage — whether through food, traditions, or local stories — creates powerful bonds. Stop at a small-town restaurant serving authentic recipes from the cultures that settled there, and let the meal become a living lesson in gratitude for those who came before us.
2Make every long drive an opportunity to visit local parishes
Catholic churches are natural waypoints on any road trip. Plan stops at parishes along your route for Mass or even a brief visit. Children are often fascinated by new buildings, statues, and stained-glass windows. Even if their attention seems to wander, they absorb the atmosphere and begin to notice what unites every Catholic church with their own home parish — and what makes each one unique. These visits quietly deepen their sense of belonging to something much larger than themselves.
If your family has Catholic roots in the area, seek out the churches your ancestors may have attended. Visit the oldest parish and step into the same sacred space where generations before you offered prayers. Light a candle there to pray for those holy souls in purgatory who were members of the parish. You could even visit the local Catholic cemetery. Saying a prayer for the souls buried there is a beautiful way to reconnect with your spiritual ancestry.
3Seek out monasteries, convents, and religious communities
You may be surprised how many monasteries, convents, and shrines lie just off the interstate. These houses of prayer often welcome pilgrims and frequently house beautiful relics, devotional art, or exhibits about local Catholic history. The religious who live there are usually delighted to see families and will gladly pray for your safe journey.
A short visit can become one of the spiritual highlights of the trip, offering a taste of contemplative life and a powerful witness of vocation to young hearts.
4Bring the saints to life by visiting places they touched
Many regions in the United States and beyond are marked by the footsteps of saints, blesseds, heroic missionaries, and even a few popes. A little research before you leave can uncover shrines, missions, or simple historical spots marked by a plaque or road sign, where these holy men and women lived, worked, or passed through on their missions. Standing where a saint once stood makes their stories vivid and real for children in a way no textbook can.
Religious communities that maintain these sites are often eager to share their knowledge and love for the saints with visiting families.
5Discover Catholic history through roadside markers and hidden gems
Keep an eye out for state historical markers — especially those honoring Catholic contributions to American life. You’ll be amazed at what you find. For instance, I just learned today there’s a marker with a 38-foot concrete cross just a few hours from my home along a US highway that acknowledges a Mass held on June 29th, 1541, just 49 years after Columbus discovered the New World. The Mass was celebrated by Fr. Juan de Padilla, one of the first martyrs in America.
These unassuming stops turn ordinary highways into roads of remembrance. Parks, battlefields, missions, and simple plaques can become powerful reminders that faith has been part of this land’s story from the very beginning.
Catholic road trip resources
For more inspiration, explore these excellent guides:
This summer, let your road trip become something more than miles on the odometer. Let it be a journey that draws your family closer to Christ, to the Communion of Saints, and to one another — one meaningful stop at a time. Safe travels!
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