St. Scholastica
Patroness of Benedictine Nuns
Feast Day: February 10
Biography
St. Scholastica (c. 480–547) was the twin sister of St. Benedict of Nursia, the father of Western monasticism. She consecrated her life to God from an early age and eventually established a convent at Plombariola, about five miles from Benedict's monastery at Monte Cassino. The most famous story about her concerns her last meeting with Benedict. They spent the day discussing spiritual matters, and when Benedict wanted to leave at nightfall (as his Rule required), Scholastica begged him to stay and continue their conversation about heaven. When he refused, she bowed her head in prayer, and immediately a violent thunderstorm broke out, making travel impossible. Benedict exclaimed, 'God forgive you, sister! What have you done?' She replied, 'I asked you and you would not listen; I asked my God and He listened.' They spent the night in holy conversation. Three days later, Benedict saw her soul ascending to heaven in the form of a dove. Gregory the Great, who recorded this story, commented: 'She was more powerful because she loved more.'
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Scholastica, whose love was stronger than any rule, help me to love God with all my heart and to trust that love's power is greater than any obstacle. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Scholastica, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Scholastica, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.