Scholastica

Saint Scholastica was born around 480 in Nursia, in Umbria, Italy, into a wealthy family. From an early age she was dedicated to God, and she grew in holiness alongside her brother, Saint Benedict of Nursia—later tradition even calling them twins. As Benedict founded his monastic community at Monte Cassino, Scholastica embraced consecrated virginity and is traditionally honored as the foundress of the Benedictine nuns, living near her brother in a small religious community. Gregory the Great recounts that once each year Scholastica and Benedict met near the monastery to pray and speak of Scripture and the things of God. At their final meeting, when Benedict insisted on returning to his cell, Scholastica prayed and a sudden storm prevented his departure, allowing them to spend the night in sacred conversation. Three days later Benedict beheld her soul rising to heaven like a shining dove. Scholastica is venerated as patron of Benedictine nuns, education and schools, and is invoked against storms and for those suffering convulsions. Her feast day is February 10.