Fr. Scott Haynes
Among the great saints who shine forth in the history of the Church, St. Scholastica stands as a beacon of purity, faith, and divine love. Her life was simple yet radiant with the presence of Christ, and through her humility, prayer, and deep spiritual union with God, she wrought miracles that continue to inspire the faithful. As the twin sister of St. Benedict, the father of Western monasticism, her life was a testament to the power of contemplative prayer and the profound love of God that flows through those who seek Him with their whole heart.
The Virtues of St. Scholastica
1. Love of God Above All Else
St. Scholastica’s love for God was the foundation of her entire life. From her youth, she dedicated herself wholly to Him, choosing the path of consecrated virginity and founding a monastery for women under the rule established by her brother, St. Benedict. She sought no earthly comforts or honors but lived in the spirit of Psalm 73:25: “Whom have I in heaven but thee? And there is nothing upon earth that I desire besides thee.”
Her love of God was not mere sentimentality; it was a burning passion that consumed her every desire and directed all her actions. She understood that to love God fully meant to surrender to His will in all things, embracing both joys and sufferings with equal trust.
2. The Power of Prayer
One of the most moving accounts of St. Scholastica’s life involves the final meeting between her and her brother, St. Benedict. As recorded by St. Gregory the Great in his Dialogues (Book II, Chapter 33), St. Scholastica desired to spend the night in holy conversation with her brother, speaking of the things of God. But St. Benedict, bound by his own monastic discipline, insisted that he must return to his monastery before nightfall. Seeing his reluctance, St. Scholastica bowed her head in fervent prayer, imploring God to intervene. At once, a sudden and violent storm arose, preventing St. Benedict from leaving. Understanding that it was not his sister’s will but God’s will that detained him, he remained and continued their holy conversation until the morning.
This event reveals the immense power of prayer when it arises from a heart filled with pure love and trust in God. St. Scholastica teaches us that the prayers of the righteous avail much (James 5:16). When we approach God with childlike confidence, He hears and answers in ways beyond our understanding.
3. Humility and Spiritual Wisdom
Despite her sanctity and the extraordinary favor she enjoyed with God, St. Scholastica remained deeply humble. She did not command the storm herself, nor did she argue with her brother; instead, she turned to God in prayer. This humility before the divine will is a model for us. True holiness does not seek to dominate but to submit; it does not demand but entrusts all to God’s providence.
St. Gregory the Great, reflecting on this event, remarked that St. Scholastica’s prayer was answered over St. Benedict’s because “her love was greater.” Here we see another profound lesson: love surpasses even the strictest adherence to rules. St. Scholastica’s love for God and for her brother was not in opposition to monastic discipline but fulfilled its highest purpose—the union of souls in God.
Miracles and Special Stories of St. Scholastica
The Flight of the Dove
Three days after their final meeting, St. Benedict, while in his monastery, saw a vision: a pure white dove rising to heaven. He immediately understood that his sister had passed from this world and entered into eternal glory. This vision profoundly moved him, and he sent his monks to retrieve her body and bury it in the tomb he had prepared for himself. Thus, in death as in life, their souls remained united in Christ.
The dove, a symbol of purity and the Holy Spirit, fittingly represents St. Scholastica’s soul. This miraculous sign reassures us of the reward awaiting those who live a life of deep prayer and love for God.
Protection of Her Monastery
Another story passed down through tradition speaks of how St. Scholastica’s monastery was once threatened by invading forces. The nuns, filled with fear, turned to their holy foundress in prayer. Just as she had called upon God during her last conversation with St. Benedict, she interceded for her spiritual daughters. A fierce storm arose, repelling the invaders and preserving the sanctity of the monastery.
This account serves as a reminder that Christ protects those who entrust themselves to Him. Even in times of turmoil and danger, prayer remains our greatest refuge.
Lessons for Our Spiritual Life
St. Scholastica’s life speaks directly to our modern challenges. Her virtues provide a guide for those seeking deeper union with God.
1. The Priority of Love
The world often tells us that rules and obligations are the highest good. While order and discipline are essential, St. Scholastica teaches us that love is the supreme law. We must never allow rigid formalism to overshadow charity. As St. Paul reminds us, “If I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing” (1 Corinthians 13:2).
2. The Power of Intercessory Prayer
Like St. Scholastica, we are called to be intercessors for others. Her example urges us to pray persistently, especially for those in need. Whether for the conversion of sinners, the protection of the Church, or the sanctification of our families, our prayers, when united with God’s will, are powerful.
3. Seeking God Above All Else
St. Scholastica’s life was one of complete dedication to God. She reminds us that our ultimate purpose is not found in worldly success but in seeking the face of Christ. Her example encourages us to cultivate a spirit of prayer, setting aside time each day to converse with God and grow in intimacy with Him.
Conclusion
St. Scholastica’s life, though hidden from the world, shines brightly as an example of sanctity. She teaches us that holiness is not about grand achievements but about loving God with an undivided heart. Her miracles remind us of the efficacy of prayer, and her humility shows us the path to true greatness in the eyes of God.
May St. Scholastica intercede for us, that we too may grow in love, prayer, and trust in Christ. May we, like her, seek the things that are above and, when our time comes, ascend to heaven where we shall behold the glory of God forever.