Gospel in Art: Saint Scholastica, Virgin

Saint Benedict and Saint Scholastica and Two Companions in a Landscape, 17th century, by Jean Baptiste de Champaigne © National Trust Images / Calke Abbey, Derby

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 10 February 2025
Mark 6:53-56

At that time: When they had crossed over, Jesus and his disciples came to land at Gennesaret and moored to the shore. And when they got out of the boat, the people immediately recognised him and ran about the whole region and began to bring the sick people on their beds to wherever they heard he was. And wherever he came, in villages, cities, or countryside, they laid the sick in the market-places and implored him that they might touch even the fringe of his garment. And as many as touched it were made well.

Reflection on the painting

Today, we celebrate the life of Saint Scholastica (c. 480-543). According to the Dialogues of Gregory the Great, Scholastica was born in Nursia, Umbria, to wealthy parents. While Gregory identifies Scholastica as the sister of Saint Benedict, later tradition suggests she may have been his twin, though whether this refers to a biological or spiritual connection-or both-remains unclear. Gregory also notes that Scholastica was dedicated to God from a young age. The Benedictine tradition holds that she established a hermitage about five miles from Monte Cassino, which is considered the first convent of Benedictine sisters that she founded.

The most well-known story about Scholastica recounts her annual visits to her brother. Once a year, they would meet near his abbey to spend the day in worship, prayer, and discussions on sacred texts. On one such visit, after they had supper and continued their conversation, Benedict prepared to leave to return to his cell, as per his monastic Rule. Scholastica, sensing that her death might be near, asked him to stay the night so they could continue their discussions. When he refused, Scholastica clasped her hands in prayer. Moments later, a wild storm arose, making it impossible for Benedict to leave. When he asked what she had done, Scholastica replied, "I asked you, and you would not listen; so I asked my God, and He did listen. Now go, if you can, and return to your monastery." Unable to leave, they spent the night in prayer and conversation. Three days later, Benedict, from his cell back at his own monastery, saw his sister's soul ascend to heaven in the form of a shining white dove.

Our 17th-century painting, housed at the National Trust's Calke Abbey in the United Kingdom, attributed to Jean Baptiste de Champaigne beautifully depicts Saint Benedict and Saint Scholastica in an animated conversation, accompanied by two companions in an idyllic Italianate landscape. This tender moment captures the serene interaction between the siblings and their companions, highlighting their spiritual bond and shared monastic devotion. The inclusion of two companions in the scene may symbolise the broader monastic community or the dissemination of their spiritual teachings.

Saint Scholastica, pray for us.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/mark-6-53-56-2025/