Day 8 — Saint Scholastica and fraternal love

Meditation

Saint Scholastica, the twin sister of Saint Benedict, was also consecrated to God. Once a year they would meet to speak of heavenly things. At their last meeting, Scholastica, sensing her death, asked Benedict to prolong the conversation. When he refused, she prayed and God sent a storm that forced them to stay. Three days later she died, and Benedict saw her soul ascending to heaven in the form of a dove.

Prayer of the Day

O glorious Saint Benedict, who filled the heart of your sister Saint Scholastica with consolation and the love of God! Grant me the grace to sanctify my dearest affections. Saint Benedict, pray for us.

Preparatory Prayer (for all days)

We greet you with filial affection, O glorious Father Saint Benedict, worker of wonders, cooperator with Christ in the work of salvation of souls. O Patriarch of monks! Look down from heaven upon the vineyard planted by your hand. Protect in a special way all who place themselves under your patronage. Pray for the sick, the tempted, the afflicted, the poor, and for us who are devoted to you. Obtain for us all a peaceful and holy death like yours. Now, obtain for us the special grace we ask in this novena.

Final Prayer

O glorious Saint Benedict, who from heaven are a loving father to us your devotees! Your great power before God is recognized today more than ever thanks to the medal honored with your name. Pray for all who come to you. Obtain for us from the Lord all the graces necessary during this life and especially the grace for which we make this novena. Saint Benedict, pray for us.

(One Our Father, three Hail Marys, and one Glory Be).