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Feast of St. Scholastica 2026


Above is the icon and story of St. Scholastica, this version created in 2012 by Paula Howard, OSB © Mount St. Scholastica, Atchison, Kansas


St. Scholastica and her twin, St. Benedict, grew up in Italy. She founded a monastery for women near her brother's monastery at Monte Cassino.


This icon shows St. Scholastica both inward in thoughtful contemplation and outward in love and concern. The dove represents her soul reaching toward heaven in simplicity of heart and love of prayer. She holds a crosier and a book, symbols of her authority and the Holy Rule, grounded in Gospel values.


In the window, the lightning and tear-like raindrops recall the last meeting of the two saints. When Benedict was to return to his monastery, Scholastica asked him to stay. When he refused, Scholastica bowed her head in prayer. Thunder, lightning and a downpour of rain prevented Benedict from leaving.


Benedict complained, "God forgive you, sister. What have you done?" She replied, "I asked you and you wouldn't listen. I asked the Lord and he listened. Now, leave if you can." So they passed the whole night in holy joy. Their biographer says that Scholastica was able to do more because she loved more. She died several days later and St. Benedict saw her soul ascend to heaven in the form of a dove.


Worship Aid for Mass



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