Memorial of Saint Scholastica, Virgin

In today’s world, we may think that St. Scholastica, a holy person from long ago, would have little relevance today. But, looking deeper, we will find how St. Scholastica truly belongs with us now. This 6th-century saint, the twin of Saint Benedict, teaches us what is most needed in the world and our families today. She and Benedict started monasteries near each other, and the siblings would meet monthly to pray and discuss their spiritual exercises.

A story surrounding their visits claims that Saint Benedict had to return to the monastery, but she wanted to continue their prayers and discussion. Saint Scholastica prayed, and suddenly, a powerful storm made it impossible for Saint Benedict to leave. They were then able to finish their conversation. Saint Benedict said that God answered her prayer because she loved more.

How did he come to this conclusion? Her life was based on prayer and work. How did she love more, and how can we love more today? We need her virtues of faithfulness, presence, dedication, and service, all of which are iterations of love. How can we love as Saint Scholastica?

Saint Peter Julian Eymard tells us in The Way of Eucharistic Prayer that to love God better, we must love others. We also hear Christ’s words, “love your brother as yourself,” and Saint Peter Julian Eymard’s prayer: “Jesus, I am sorry for the times I have fallen short in loving you by not loving others.” In today’s readings, Genesis 1 1-19, we witness God’s creation of all things that are nature. Benedict recognized that our Creator moved nature to answer her prayer! We, too, must open our hearts to the importance of the other.

Let Us Pray:

Saint Scholastica, help us to claim your example of prayer, work, and love.