Memorial of St. Scholastica, Virgin
Today we remember St. Scholastica, who founded the Benedictine sisters in the sixth century following the Rule that her twin brother, St. Benedict had written. The rule contains much timeless wisdom that still applies nearly 1500 years later. It emphasizes the importance of balance in the spiritual life of time spent in work, prayer, community, solitude and rest. Many religious communities, such as my Marianist Family are based on the Benedictine rule. The practice of hospitality is expressed by ‘welcoming every guest as if they were Christ’. When making important decisions, the community is encouraged to listen to the youngest/newest member’s perspectives first, that we remain responsive to the Spirit and practice the deep listening of synodality and openness to new ways.
Today’s Scriptures embody several aspects conveyed in the Benedictine tradition - the experience of God dwelling among us that we experience in our sacred spaces (as Solomon did in his temple) and that monasteries feature in the aesthetics of their chapels as well as the beauty of all creation in the outdoors grounds.
St. Scholastica could be considered a patron of all-night conversations and snow days. A famous story is during a visit of her brother Benedict at her monastery. They were engaged in deep conversation that she so wanted to last longer. As evening approached, Scholastica begged him to stay, but Benedict felt obliged by the rule to return home to his monastery. Scholastica asked God in prayer that her brother might stay longer. To their surprise, a storm blew up and Benedict had no choice but to remain for a longer conversation into the night! .
May St Scholastica pray with us as we welcome each stranger, each guest as Christ. May we remain open to the creative spirit among us, and listen to the spirit rather than the letter of the law. And when storms and other obstacles change our plans, may we welcome the unexpected gift of time for prayer, reflection, indoors work, rest and extended time dwelling with loved ones.
— Sr. Leanne Jablonski FMI, Marianist Sisters