San Paolino di Nola, Saint of the day for June 20

(354-22 June 431)

The history of San Paolino di Nola

Anyone praised in the letters of six or seven saints must undoubtedly have an extraordinary character. This person was Paolino di Nola, correspondent and friend of the saints Agostino, Girolamo, Melania, Martino, Gregorio Magno and Ambrogio.

Born near Bordeaux, he was the son of the Roman prefect of Gaul, who had extensive properties in both Gaul and Italy. Paolino became an illustrious lawyer, with several public offices in the Roman empire. With his Spanish wife, Therasia, he retired at a young age for a cultured leisure life.

The two were baptized by the holy bishop of Bordeaux and transferred to the Therasia estate in Spain. After many childless years, they had a son who died a week after birth. This caused the beginning of a life of great austerity and charity, giving away much of their Spanish property. Perhaps following this great example, Pauline was unexpectedly ordained a priest at Christmas by the bishop of Barcelona.

He and his wife then moved to Nola, near Naples. He had a great love for San Felice di Nola and spent many efforts to promote devotion for this saint. Pauline ceded most of his remaining properties - to the dismay of his relatives - and continued his work for the poor. By supporting a range of debtors, the homeless and other needy people, she lived a monastic life in another part of her home. By popular demand he was appointed bishop of Nola and led that diocese for 21 years.

The last years of Pauline were saddened by the invasion of the Huns. Among his few writings is the first existing Christian wedding song. His liturgical feast is on June 22nd.

Reflection

Many of us are tempted to "retire" early in life after an initial explosion of energy. Devotion to Christ and his work is waiting to be done around us. Paolino's life had just begun when he thought it was over, while relaxing in that estate in Spain. "Man proposes, but God disposes."