St Anselm

Saint Anselm Philosopher & Theologian (1033 BC-1109 B.C.)

Saint Anselm was a Christian philosopher and theologian best known for his ontological argument, his theistic proofs, conception of the divine nature, and his account of human freedom, sin, and redemption. Born near Aosta but leaving at the age of 23, Anselm roamed aimlessly until he came across the Benedictine abbey at Bec. It was here that both his intellectual and spiritual gifts were recognized. In 1063 Anselm was appointed abbot of Caen and under his guidance the institutions reputation grew. This allowed Anselm to write fluently in regards to philosophy and theology, which were in addition to his teaching, administrative duties, and extensive correspondence as an adviser and counselor. In 1720 Anselm was named in a Doctor of the Church and was canonized in 1494.

Quotes:

God hath promised pardon to him that repenteth, but he hath not promised repentance to him that sinneth.

Disasters teach us humility.

For I do not seek to understand that I may believe, but I believe in order to understand. For this I believe that unless I believe, I should not understand.

Faith seeking understanding.

How can you God be omnipotent if he cannot do all things? How can he do all things if he cannot be corrupted or lie or make false what is true – which would be to make what exists into non being – and so forth. Or is it these things proceed from not power but from powerlessness?

Nothing is true except by participating in truth, and hence the truth of something is in that true thing.