Journalist Reflects on Sir Anthony Hopkins’ 2012 Visit to Thomas Aquinas College

In a follow-up post to a consideration of the state of Christianity in Hollywood, Christian journalist Terry Mattingly reflects on Sir Anthony Hopkins’ impromptu visit to Thomas Aquinas College, California, in 2012, brought on by the sight of the campus chapel.

“Imagine,” Mr. Mattingly says, “that you are doing whatever work you are supposed to be doing at the Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity Chapel at the small Thomas Aquinas College in Southern California. Then a man — who was cruising past on California Highway 150 — quietly enters and begins asking questions.”

The man in question was six-time Oscar Award-winning actor Sir Anthony Hopkins, who, inspired by the Chapel’s beauty as he drove past the College, made an unplanned detour to get a closer look at the magnificent building and the campus surrounding it. After talking with some College officials, he returned a few days later for Q&A with students, where he shared anecdotes and wisdom gained throughout his acting career.

“I feel very privileged to be in such a place,” he told the students at the time. “I’ve never seen such a beautiful place in my life. It’s most amazing. It’s like Shangri-La!”

Seven years later, the actor returned to the campus during the Great Books High School Summer Program. While touring the newly finished St. Cecilia Hall, he played the piano on the auditorium’s stage, treating his hosts to a mix of classical pieces and original compositions.

As Mr. Mattingly points out in his post, Sir Anthony has never publicly expressed much about his religious views. He has revealed a general belief in God but not more beyond that. Yet the actor’s providential visits to TAC-California are a testament to the mystery of God’s grace and the evangelical nature of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity Chapel, expressed through its architectural majesty.