St Scholastica

Scholastica and her brother, St. Benedict, were born to a wealthy Christian family in Nursia, Italy. Details of their lives come from the Dialogues of St. Gregory the Great.

After Benedict established his monastery at Monte Cassino, she founded a convent at Plombariola, and was its abbess for many years.

The siblings met once a year outside Monte Cassino. At their final meeting, Scholastica begged Benedict to stay the night and, when he wouldn’t, she asked God for help.

A violent storm ensued and Benedict had to stay. They spent the night discussing the joys of heaven, and she died three days later.

Scholastica is the patron saint of Benedictine nuns and convulsive children.

Text: Catholic News Service