The life of Saint Scholastica, twin sister of Saint Benedict, is a tale imbued with spirituality, devotion and sisterly love. Born into a noble Italian family in the 6th century, Scholastica was a woman of profound faith, making a significant contribution to the development of Christian monasticism. Here is a detailed account of her life:
Childhood and education:
Saint Scholastica was born around 480 into an aristocratic family in Nursia, Italy, a few kilometres from today's Mont Cassin. Her Christian family gave birth to another major figure in Christian spirituality, her twin brother, Benedict. They were brought up in the Christian faith, but Scholastica showed a marked inclination towards the monastic life from an early age.
Foundation of the monastic life:
At some point in their lives, Benedict and Scholastica both chose to dedicate themselves to God. Benedict went to Mont Cassin to found the monastic community that later became the cradle of the Benedictine order. Scholastica, meanwhile, founded a convent of nuns near Mont-Cassin, dedicated to the Holy Trinity.
Spirituality and Monastic Life:
Scholastica's monastic life was imbued with prayer, contemplation and charity towards the sisters in her community. She followed the monastic rule of her brother Benedict, but moderated certain rules to better suit the life of consecrated women.
Annual Meeting with Benedict:
The most famous story linked to Saint Scholastica concerns her relationship with her brother. Every year, the two siblings would meet for a day of prayer and spiritual conversation. These meetings strengthened their spiritual connection and brotherly love.
The Last Farewell:
During their last meeting, Scholastica sensed that her end was approaching. She asked her brother to stay a little longer to continue their conversation, but Benedict, because of the strict monastic rules, refused. So Scholastica prayed fervently for God to keep her brother.
Miraculous storm:
In response to Scholastica's prayers, a violent storm broke out, preventing Benedict from returning to his monastery. Benedict, astonished by this miraculous storm, understood that it was God's will and spent the night conversing with his sister on deep spiritual matters.
Death of Scholastica:
Three days later, Scholastica passed away peacefully. Her brother Benoît saw her ascend to heaven in the form of a dove. Although physically separated, their souls remained united in faith and brotherly love.
Beatification and Veneration:
After her death, Scholastica was buried near Nursia. She was beatified and recognised as a saint by the Catholic Church. Her feast day, celebrated on 10 February, commemorates her pious life and her role in the development of female monasticism.
Legacy:
Saint Scholastica is honoured as the patron saint of Benedictine nuns, and her example continues to inspire those who seek a life devoted to prayer, contemplation and brotherly love. Her story underlines the importance of faith, prayer and love in the monastic and spiritual life.
