Podcast Summary: Catholic Saints – Episode on St. Scholastica

Introduction to the Episode

In the February 10, 2025 release of the Augustine Institute’s podcast series "Catholic Saints," hosts Dr. Elizabeth Klein and Dr. Jessica Murdoch delve into the life of Saint Scholastica, the twin sister of the renowned Saint Benedict of Nursia. This episode is part of a series focusing on lesser-known female saints, aiming to shed light on their inspiring lives and contributions to the Catholic tradition.

Exploring the Life of Saint Scholastica

Dr. Elizabeth Klein opens the discussion by introducing Saint Scholastica, emphasizing her noble birth in Nursia around 480 AD and her deep, lifelong devotion to God. “Saint Scholastica...was born to nobles in Nursia. And she loved God intensely from childhood” (01:05) she explains. Dr. Murdoch adds that Scholastica was profoundly influenced by her brother Benedict’s holiness, which drove her to pursue a life of asceticism similar to his own.

Shared Spiritual Journeys with Saint Benedict

The conversation highlights the parallel lives of Saint Scholastica and Saint Benedict. Both began as hermits, driven by a desire for a deeper spiritual life. “She endeavored to become a hermit, living at the foot of the mountain of her brother's monastery” (01:05) Dr. Murdoch notes. Dr. Klein draws a comparison to Saint Augustine’s relationship with his sister, showcasing a recurring theme in Catholic sainthood where siblings inspire and support each other’s spiritual journeys.

Founding of Monastic Communities

As both saints attracted followers, they transitioned from solitary lives to founding monastic communities. Dr. Murdoch explains, “Other women flocked to St. Scholastica, and they began praying together in the same place...she was almost forced to found a monastery to house all of the women who came to pray together” (02:09). Scholastica established a monastery five miles south of Monte Cassino, mirroring her brother’s monastic rule, thereby creating a “twin monastery” (02:36).

The Final Days of Saint Scholastica

A poignant story recounted by Dr. Murdoch details the final meeting between Saint Scholastica and Saint Benedict. According to Pope Gregory the Great’s account, during their annual meeting, a severe storm prevented Benedict from returning to his monastery, effectively allowing Scholastica to pass away peacefully. “St. Benedict could not go to the monastery that night...this was going to be her last night alive” (03:54). Upon returning, Benedict witnessed a dove ascending to heaven, symbolizing Scholastica’s soul (04:51).

Lessons on Charity and Discipline

The episode delves into the profound lesson imparted by Scholastica’s final request to Benedict—prioritizing charity over rigid adherence to rules. Dr. Klein reflects, “The life that Dr. Murdoch is referring to was written by Pope Gregory the Great...the lesson is charity rules all” (05:14). This narrative underscores the importance of compassion and flexibility within religious practice, suggesting that true charity may sometimes require breaking established norms for the greater good.

Modern Implications and Family Holiness

Dr. Klein and Dr. Murdoch draw parallels between Scholastica’s story and contemporary Christian life. They emphasize the significance of holy family relationships and the impact of saintly examples within families. “There really is that idea that men and women are in it together...God is calling people to love him and to witness in all of these different ways” (08:21). Dr. Murdoch adds, “The sheer effects that holy families can have on the world...is amazing” (09:08), highlighting how familial sanctity can inspire broader community and vocations.

Conclusion and Call to Prayer

The episode concludes by encouraging listeners to seek Saint Scholastica’s intercession for the sanctity of families and the prioritization of charity in their lives. Dr. Klein summarizes, “We can ask for the intercession of Saint Scholastica” (09:27), reinforcing the episode’s central themes of mutual support, charity, and the enduring legacy of saintly relationships.

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Jessica Murdoch: “She endeavored to become a hermit, living at the foot of the mountain of her brother's monastery” (01:05).
• Dr. Elizabeth Klein: “The lesson is charity rules all” (05:14).
• Dr. Jessica Murdoch: “The sheer effects that holy families can have on the world...is amazing” (09:08).

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Catholic Saints" provides a rich and engaging exploration of Saint Scholastica’s life, her close relationship with Saint Benedict, and the timeless lessons of charity and familial holiness. Through insightful dialogue and historical narratives, Dr. Klein and Dr. Murdoch offer listeners a deeper understanding of Scholastica’s enduring spiritual legacy, making it accessible and inspiring for both the faithful and those new to the stories of Catholic saints.

For those interested in exploring further, the Augustine Institute offers video formats of these interviews on their online Catholic streaming service at form.org.