sentences:  So marked was his progress in studies and letters that he was singled out, even though yet a novice, by special marks of affection from Pope Benedict XIII.During the reconstruction of St. Sixtus' in 1727 and 1728, the pontiff visited the Irish Dominicans once a week, taking part in their community exercises, becoming familiar with the friars and especially with Burke.He was gradually promoted to the highest theological honours of the order, being charged successively with all the official duties in a regular Dominican studium.