*We highlight these Saints to inspire our students and contribute to their growth in Catholic education by fostering understanding and appreciation for Catholic values and teachings. We encourage parents to share the stories of these Saints with their children to deepen their spirituality and motivate them to live their faith with conviction, following the examples of these admired role models.*
St. Scholastica, also called St. Scholastica of Nursia, was a very early saint. She was born around 480 AD in Nursia, which is now called Norcia in Italy. She had a twin brother named St. Benedict, who is known as the Father of Western Monasticism. They were both born into a rich family. Scholastica and Benedict were very close and they both desired to serve God throughout their lives. They chose to live very simple lives, focusing on praying and being close to God.
Scholastica is often regarded as the founder of the Benedictine nuns, although her life is not as extensively documented as her brother’s. It is believed that she founded a community of women who followed the Rule of St. Benedict, adapting it for the contemplative life of nuns. Much of what is known about her comes from the writings of St. Gregory the Great, who chronicled the lives of many saints, including the famous “Dialogues,” in which he included an account of Scholastica’s life.
“She could do more because she loved more.”
St. Gregory the Great on St. Scholastica
Scholastica and Benedict are best known for their deep spiritual connection and commitment to the monastic way of life. They both embraced a life of prayer, humility, and service to God. According to the most famous story about Scholastica, she and Benedict would meet once a year at a house near Monte Cassino to discuss spiritual matters. During one of their annual meetings, as the story goes, Scholastica and Benedict spent the entire day in prayer and conversation. As evening approached, Scholastica sensed that it might be the last time they would see each other on Earth, and she asked Benedict to stay with her for the night. However, Benedict, bound by the strict rule of his monastic order, refused to spend the night away from his monastery.
In response to her brother’s refusal, Scholastica prayed fervently, and a sudden thunderstorm erupted, preventing Benedict from returning to his monastery. Benedict asked, “What have you done?” to which Scholastica replied, “I asked a favor of you, and you would not hear me; so I asked it of God, and he has granted it.” Recognizing the divine intervention, Benedict stayed with his twin sister, and they continued their discussions throughout the night. Three days later, Benedict saw a vision of his sister’s soul ascending to heaven in the form of a dove.
St. Scholastica is venerated as the patron saint of nuns, education, and convulsive children. Her feast day is celebrated on February 10th. The life and legacy of St. Scholastica continue to inspire those who seek a life of devotion, prayer, and spiritual growth within Catholicism. Her legacy lives on through the Benedictine nuns and the numerous individuals inspired by her commitment to a life of prayer, humility, and service to God.
FAMILY ACTIVITY: Have your children ever spent much time around monks and nuns? Find a local monastery and bring your children! Whether it’s for a tour, attending Mass, or just stopping for a few minutes to pray in a chapel, it is good to show your children the beautiful vocation of religious life!